Pingshan travel guide and discussion

Here is a 3-day travel guide to the Xibaipo Revolutionary Site with a budget of 2000 RMB, helping you deeply understand this important history while enjoying a comfortable travel experience. Xibaipo Revolutionary Site 3-Day Travel Guide (Budget: 2000 RMB) 1. Itinerary Overview Day 1: Arrival and Initial Visit Day 2: In-depth Tour and Cultural Experience Day 3: Surrounding Attractions and Return Day 1: Arrival and Core Area of Xibaipo Transportation Transport options: Take high-speed train/bullet train to Shijiazhuang, then transfer by bus or taxi to Xibaipo (about 1 hour) Budget: High-speed train/bullet train ticket about 150-250 RMB (depending on departure location) Accommodation Recommended: Budget hotels or guesthouses in Xibaipo Town or nearby (such as express hotels, homestays) Budget: 150-250 RMB/night Itinerary Afternoon: Check-in upon arrival Rest briefly Evening: Stroll around Xibaipo Town to experience rural charm Taste local specialties (such as tofu, noodles) Estimated Costs Transportation: 200 RMB Accommodation: 200 RMB Dinner: 50 RMB Total: about 450 RMB Day 2: Deep Exploration of Revolutionary Site and Cultural Experience Morning Xibaipo Revolutionary Memorial Hall (free) Learn about Chinese revolutionary history and enjoy rich exhibitions Xibaipo Former Site (ticket about 20 RMB) Visit the living and working places of Mao Zedong and other senior revolutionaries Noon Lunch near the scenic area Budget: 50 RMB (farmhouse dishes or fast food) Afternoon Xibaipo Memorial Hall: deeper understanding of the Party’s history Former Central Committee Site (free, some spots) Hiking or strolling: experience natural scenery (such as Xibaipo Mountain) Evening Optional walk in town to experience local nightlife Dinner: 50 RMB Estimated Costs Tickets: 20 RMB Lunch + Dinner: 100 RMB Transportation (within scenic area): 50 RMB Total: about 170 RMB Day 3: Surrounding Attractions and Return Morning Visit surrounding attractions of Xibaipo: Langya Mountain (if time permits, arrange a short trip, ticket about 30 RMB) Or relax in town and buy local handicrafts Noon Light meal or takeout Budget: 30 RMB Afternoon Return to Shijiazhuang or other cities Return transportation Estimated Costs Transportation: 200 RMB (including return) Lunch: 30 RMB Total: about 230 RMB Budget Summary Item Costs (RMB) Transportation (round trip) 200 RMB Accommodation (2 nights) 400 RMB Tickets and attraction fees 20+30=50 RMB Meals (6 meals) 150 RMB Transportation (within scenic area) 50 RMB Others (souvenirs, etc.) 50 RMB Total 900 RMB Remaining Budget (1100 RMB): Can be used for upgraded accommodation, buying souvenirs, enjoying specialty meals, or handling unexpected needs. Tips Book in advance: save on accommodation costs and ensure availability Wear comfortable clothes: lots of walking in scenic areas, wear sneakers Bring essentials: ID card, student ID (some attractions offer discounts), power bank Respect history: follow scenic area rules and keep the environment clean Hope this guide helps you explore Xibaipo easily and enjoyably, feeling the excitement of that historic period! If you need more detailed advice or a customized itinerary, just let me know!

Title: 3 days and 2 nights for 9,980 yuan, unlocking the "seriously underestimated" Shijiazhuang with the whole family! A family of four tested it out: it turns out this is the "hidden level" of Hebei’s cultural tourism! Who says Shijiazhuang is just a "village"? As a seasoned tour guide with 18 years of experience, I took my parents and two kids on a trip myself. It turns out Shijiazhuang is China’s most hardcore "city of folded history"! It’s neither coastal nor mountainous, yet it boasts: ✅ A millennium-old temple older than the Forbidden City ✅ The cradle of New China’s finance and industry ✅ The Hanging Temple wonder in the secret realm of the Taihang Mountains ✅ And an "underground dinosaur museum" that makes kids scream with excitement! A family of four, 3 days and 2 nights, total cost 9,980 yuan, Stayed in a garden-style guesthouse next to a state guesthouse, ate authentic central Hebei home-style dishes, Explored temples and ancient sites by day, watched light and shadow shows by night, Even my parents said, "This trip was quieter than Wutai Mountain and had more content!" 🗓 Day 1: Climb Zhaozhou Bridge × Explore Bailin Zen Temple × Night tour of Zhengding Ancient City Wall Morning: Drive or take high-speed train to Shijiazhuang Station (2 hours direct from Beijing), then a 30-minute taxi to Zhaozhou Bridge in Zhao County (40 yuan per person entrance fee). Built in the Sui Dynasty, 1,400 years old, designed by Li Chun, a "living fossil" in the history of world bridges! When explaining the "open spandrel arch" principle to the kids, my son blurted out, "This is ancient ‘weight-reduction black technology’!" Noon: Eat authentic central Hebei flavors at Qiaoxi Old Restaurant: stewed pork knuckle, fried shredded pancakes, handmade tofu soup, 280 yuan for four, warm and satisfying. Afternoon: Drive 40 minutes to Zhengding Ancient City, check in at Longxing Courtyard Boutique Guesthouse (family suite 1,580 yuan/night, Ming and Qing style courtyard, 5-minute walk to attractions). First stop: Longxing Temple (40 yuan per person)— "The top temple outside Beijing," housing a Northern Song Dynasty bronze statue of the Thousand-Hand Guanyin, 21.3 meters tall, stunning like a miracle. The kids counted as they walked: "There really are 42 hands!" The guide smiled, "This is how ancient people solved the ‘not enough hands’ problem with art." Evening: Climb the South City Gate wall of Zhengding (free), watch the sunset over the moat, Every Friday and Saturday night there’s the Ancient City Light and Shadow Show (free), laser projections telling the legend of "Zhao Zilong’s hometown in the Three Kingdoms," the kids excitedly shouted, "Zhao Yun is my hometown hero!" Dinner: Eat intangible cultural heritage handmade shaomai and mixed noodle helo at Wang’s Shaomai, 320 yuan for four, thin skin and full filling, the elders ate three each. ⛰️ Day 2: Red Study Tour at Xibaipo × Light Hiking at Tiangui Mountain × Overnight at Taihang Mountain Residence Early morning: Drive 1 hour to Xibaipo Memorial Site (free admission, audio guide 20 yuan per person), Step into the former Central Committee site, see Mao’s wooden bed, Premier Zhou’s maps, Join the "Little Telegraph Operator Experience Class" (parent-child activity 60 yuan per family), kids send telegrams simulating command of the Three Major Campaigns, fully focused like little soldiers. Noon: Eat "Revolutionary Meal" at the site restaurant: millet porridge, steamed corn bread, stewed cabbage with vermicelli, recreating the tough years, 160 yuan for four, full of educational value. Afternoon: Drive 1.5 hours deep into Tiangui Mountain Scenic Area (ticket + cable car 120 yuan per person), known as "Little Guilin of the North." Choose an easy route: cable car up the mountain → walk the glass plank road → explore natural caves → climb the Hanging Temple at Zhenwu Hall, suitable for elders and kids. The kids exclaimed, "This is even more thrilling than ‘The Difficult Road to Shu’!" Mom took a family photo: "We are the family of warriors!" Night: Stay at Tiangui Mountain Mountain Residence Guesthouse (family room 1,380 yuan/night, window view of the starry river, peaceful like a paradise), Gather around the stove drinking tea, sharing the day’s stories, fall asleep to the sound of insects, truly away from the hustle and bustle. 🦖 Day 3: Time Travel at Hebei Museum × Fun at KidsJoy Children’s Science Park × Bringing Culture Home Morning: On the way back, visit Hebei Museum (free, reservation required), Focus on two national treasures: 🔹 The gold-thread jade burial suit of Liu Sheng, Prince Jing of Zhongshan (top craftsmanship of the Han Dynasty) 🔹 The Changxin Palace Lantern (environmental pioneer, "adjustable brightness + smoke absorption design") Join the "Little Archaeologist" interactive area (free), kids "dig" pottery shards and "assemble" bronze ware, proudly declaring, "I want to be an archaeologist in the future!" Noon: Eat at the old brand Bai Yunzhang Baozi next to the museum: beef and green onion buns + millet porridge, 180 yuan for four, simple and delicious. Afternoon: Head to Letai Center KidsJoy Children’s Park (80 yuan per person), Let the kids have one last hour of wild fun climbing slides and role-play houses to burn off energy. Parents nap in the café and shop for souvenirs: Gaocheng Palace Lantern miniatures (68 yuan), Wuji helo noodles (30 yuan/bag), Zanhuang raw honey (58 yuan/bottle), spending less than 400 yuan, thoughtful and classy. 💰 Total Budget Breakdown (for 4 people) Item Cost (yuan) Fuel + tolls 900 Accommodation (2 nights) 2,960 Meals (6 dinners, 3 breakfasts) 1,200 Tickets + experiences 1,178 Taxi + parking 150 Souvenirs + snacks 300 Emergency fund 292 Total 9,980 yuan ✅ Why strongly recommend Shijiazhuang for family travel? It’s not a traditional tourist city, but it’s the most cost-effective cultural treasure in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region! One trip lets kids understand: 📌 Ancient Chinese architectural wisdom 📌 The hard-won red regime 📌 Technology had its prototype 2,000 years ago Spend 10,000 yuan to gain knowledge, scenery, and family bonding—this is the ultimate form of high-quality parent-child travel! 📌 Tour guide’s private tips: Some temples in Zhengding Ancient City are closed on Mondays, so plan for weekends; Hebei Museum must be booked on the official website 3 days in advance; Tiangui Mountain has many mountain roads, recommend trekking poles for elders; Customizable "Idioms + History + Geography" themed study manuals are available to enhance educational value. Bring your family to Shijiazhuang and rediscover this overlooked land of Yan and Zhao!

To meet this 500-year-old ginkgo tree, we climbed Tiangui Mountain with the kids! When the autumn wind blows, the ginkgo leaves fall like golden rain, and the children excitedly reach out to catch them. It’s really worth it~ 📍Destination: Tiangui Mountain 🚗Transportation: It takes about 1.5 hours to drive from the city center, and the navigation is very accurate. If taking public transportation, you can take a bus from the North Station directly to the entrance of the scenic area. For families with kids, driving is more convenient. 💛Centennial Ginkgo at Qinglong Temple: This 500-plus-year-old giant ginkgo tree is right at the top of the mountain at Qinglong Temple. In autumn, the tree is full of golden leaves, and the fallen leaves cover the ground like a golden carpet, making for amazing photos! Qinglong Temple itself is also worth visiting, with ancient and solemn buildings like Zhenwu Hall and Cangyan Hall, where you can tell kids some historical stories. 📸Parent-Child Tour Tips: 1️⃣ Hiking up the mountain: If the family with kids has good stamina, you can try hiking. The steps are relatively gentle, and it takes about an hour to reach the top at a slow pace. The scenery along the way is beautiful, and kids can manage it. 2️⃣ Easy cable car option: If the children are young or don’t want to hike, you can take the cable car directly up the mountain. After getting off the cable car, it’s only a 10-minute gentle walk to the ginkgo tree, which is very friendly for toddlers! On the way down, you can also visit the glass plank road and Zhenwu Cave. The glass plank road offers a very wide view and is thrilling for kids. Zhenwu Cave is a natural karst cave and a bit dark inside, so if your child is timid, it’s recommended to enter with caution. 💙Overall Experience: One day is just enough to enjoy everything easily—hiking, autumn leaf viewing, cave exploring, and walking the glass plank road. The itinerary is super rich, and the kids are happy the whole time!

Bailu Hot Spring 👉 Thoughtful multi-functional pools! There’s a shallow pool exclusively for children, so parents can relax while kids have fun in the water 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Huazhong Hot Spring 👉 Outstanding service reputation! Equipped with family changing rooms and non-slip mats, no stress even with babies 🛁 Laiyuan Baihualin Hot Spring 👉 Forest-style hot spring that’s super healing! Amazing natural scenery, perfect for photo ops 🍃 Xibu Changqing Hot Spring 👉 All-in-one resort for dining, entertainment, and relaxation! Take a walk after soaking, perfect family time 🏞️ Dingfeng Han Steam Hot Spring 👉 Tons of entertainment options! Family steam rooms and a kids’ playground, ideal for keeping the little ones active 🎉 Piaomiao Jian Hot Spring 👉 Famous for its skin-beautifying waters! Moms soak in the rose pool while babies enjoy the lemon pool, pure indulgence 🧖‍♀️ Xiyuan Xiangshui Bay 👉 Water slides plus hot springs combo! Kids won’t want to leave, full family fun guaranteed 👪 Baipo Hot Spring 👉 Quiet mountain-view hot spring with fewer crowds! Private small pools perfect for families with two kids to relax 🏞️ 💡Warm Tips: Prepare waterproof armbands and hot spring toys for kids to add more fun Bring your own baby bathrobe and non-slip slippers for safer in and out Apply moisturizer promptly after soaking to lock in skin moisture Less crowded, affordable, and unique—bring your kids for a warm and cozy trip~🌿

Spring Festival is just around the corner, and of course, you should plan a warm hot spring trip for the holiday~There are many hidden gem hot springs around Shijiazhuang perfect for family outings, with both indoor and outdoor springs, private hot spring pools all available. Quickly save this list and easily check in with your kids! 🌟 Xibu Changqing Hot Spring Valley Opening Hours: 10:00-24:00 Address: Changqing Avenue, Bailuquan Township, Luquan District Recommended Reason: Outdoor + indoor hot springs, swimming pools, private hot springs all available, with super convenient surrounding hotels. You won’t get tired even after a whole day of fun! Average Cost: 150 RMB 🌟 Bailu Hot Spring Opening Hours: 9:00-23:00 Address: Bailu Avenue, Wentang Town, Pingshan County Recommended Reason: A wide variety of hot springs, clean water quality, suitable for kids to play in the water, and the hotel is within walking distance for great convenience~ Average Cost: 180 RMB 🌟 Piaomiao Jian Hot Spring Opening Hours: 10:00-22:00 Address: West side of Jingye Middle School, Gangcheng Road, Pingshan County Recommended Reason: Quiet environment, moderate temperature indoor and outdoor hot springs, safe for children to soak, fewer people on weekends for a better experience! Average Cost: 170 RMB 🌟 Baipo Hot Spring Opening Hours: 10:00-22:00 Address: Baipo Hot Spring Hotel, Wentang Town, Pingshan County Recommended Reason: Best value for money! The outdoor hot spring has a wide view, perfect for the whole family to relax together~ Average Cost: 110 RMB 🌟 Guoyu Hot Spring Opening Hours: 10:00-22:00 Address: No. 6 Gaoxin Road, Gaocheng District Recommended Reason: Chinese garden style, hot spring pools nestled among greenery, perfect for taking stunning photos! Average Cost: 120 RMB 🌟 Furui Strontium Hot Spring Opening Hours: 9:00-20:00 Address: Country Garden British Commercial Street, Yuanshi County Recommended Reason: A niche hot spring with few people and quiet, water contains strontium which is skin-friendly, ideal for quietly soaking with kids~ Average Cost: 100 RMB

When it comes to Shijiazhuang, many people’s first reaction might be, “Huh? That city built by the train?” But actually, it’s a seriously underrated treasure city, hiding plenty of “hardcore” gems! Don’t just treat it as a transit stop—spend two or three days here, and it will definitely surprise you. I’ve put together a relaxed yet fulfilling 3-day itinerary for you. Let’s set off! Day 1: Journey through the charm of an ancient city Wake up naturally, have breakfast, and head straight to today’s highlight—the Zhengding Ancient City. This place is remarkable, known as a “treasure trove of ancient architecture,” and it’s only about a half-hour drive from downtown Shijiazhuang. · Morning: The awe of Longxing Temple The first must-visit in the ancient city is Longxing Temple. Don’t underestimate it; it was praised by Mr. Liang Sicheng as “the foremost famous temple outside Beijing.” It houses six “national records,” the most stunning being the 21.3-meter-tall statue of the Thousand-Armed and Thousand-Eyed Guanyin. Standing at her feet and looking up, the solemnity and exquisite detail will truly take your breath away. Inside the Mani Hall, the colorful statue of the Guanyin sitting backward, with a serene and free expression, is known as the “Goddess of the East” and is a must-see. · Afternoon: Climb the ancient city wall and check in at the Four Pagodas After leaving Longxing Temple, you can stroll around the ancient city to soak in the slow pace of life. Then be sure to walk on the ancient city wall! It’s best to go up in the late afternoon when the sunset bathes the city. The silhouettes of the four ancient pagodas (Lingxiao Pagoda, Hua Pagoda, Xumi Pagoda, and Chengling Pagoda) stand out clearly in the distance, creating a special atmosphere. Every photo you take will look like a masterpiece. The city wall has no entrance fee, which is very generous! · Evening: Night view of the South City Gate and local cuisine When it gets dark, the lights of the ancient city come on, presenting a different scene, especially the South City Gate, which is particularly magnificent. Have dinner inside the ancient city and try Zhengding’s specialties like hot meatballs and heluo noodles. The flavors are simple yet authentic, guaranteed to satisfy you. Day 2: Following the footsteps of history · Morning: Childhood memories at Zhaozhou Bridge “Zhaozhou Bridge was built by Lu Ban, with jade and stone railings left by the sage…” Sounds familiar, right? Today we’ll go see the Zhaozhou Bridge from your textbooks. It’s located in Zhaoxian County under Shijiazhuang’s jurisdiction, about an hour’s drive from the city. Standing on the bridge and touching the massive stone arch that has withstood over 1,400 years of weather, you’ll sincerely admire the wisdom of ancient craftsmen. The bridge itself may not be as grand as you imagine, but its historical status and scientific value are irreplaceable. · Afternoon: A moment of tranquility at Bailin Zen Temple After visiting Zhaozhou Bridge, a short walk will bring you to Bailin Zen Temple. This is a millennium-old temple with bustling incense offerings but a very pleasant atmosphere—quiet and serene. Walking inside, listening to the wind chimes and chanting, can instantly calm a restless heart. You don’t need to burn incense or pray; simply experiencing the Zen vibe is very comforting. · Evening: Back to the city for food and fun Return to Shijiazhuang city center. For dinner, you can explore Zhuangli Street or the White Night Market area, where various foods gather. Since you’re in Hebei, you must try a bowl of authentic Anhui beef banmian! Yes, this is indeed a specialty in Shijiazhuang. The noodles are chewy, the broth rich, paired with marinated eggs and tofu skin—absolutely delicious! Day 3: Red memories and city strolls · Morning: The birthplace of New China—Xibaipo If you’re interested in modern history, Xibaipo is a must-visit. It’s the place “where New China started,” where the Central Committee of the Communist Party directed the three major campaigns that shocked the world. Visit the former site of the Central Committee and the memorial hall. Seeing those simple earthen houses and precious relics will give you a deeper understanding of that magnificent history. It’s a bit far from the city, so reserve most of the day and plan your transportation in advance. · Afternoon: The treasures of Hebei Museum If you don’t go to Xibaipo or still have time after returning, I highly recommend the Hebei Museum. It’s a national first-class museum with countless treasures! Especially the “Great Han Masterpiece—Mancheng Han Tomb” exhibition, where the world-famous gold-threaded jade burial suit and the authentic Changxin Palace lantern are displayed. Seeing them in person lets you truly appreciate the ultimate luxury and craftsmanship—definitely worth the visit (oh, and the museum is free but requires advance reservation). Travel Tips: · Accommodation: It’s recommended to stay near Shijiazhuang Station or the museum for convenient transportation. · Transportation: You can reach city attractions by subway and bus. For Zhengding and Zhaoxian, high-speed trains or buses are very convenient. Taxis are also affordable. · Food: Besides the mentioned dishes, try the clay oven sesame seed cakes and Gaocheng palace noodles—both are local specialties. Shijiazhuang boasts profound historical heritage, red revolutionary memories, and irresistible local cuisine. Don’t hesitate—pick a weekend and come explore the charm of this “International Village” yourself! Have a great trip!

⛱️Must-see attractions: 1. Zhengding Ancient City: In history, it was once known as the "Three Heroes of the North" along with Baoding and Beijing. Inside the city, there are many cultural relics and historical sites, such as the "Three Mountains Unseen, Nine Bridges Without Flow, and Twenty-four Golden Archways". 2. Zhaozhou Bridge: The oldest, largest-span, and best-preserved single-hole, open-spandrel stone arch bridge in the world, known as the "First Bridge Under Heaven". 3. Tiangui Mountain Scenic Area: Here, there are numerous grotesque peaks, rocks, caves, springs, and lush forests. It has both the natural beauty of majestic and elegant scenery and the noble charm of royal gardens. 🍜Food guide: 1. Deep-fried Sweet and Sour Fish: The carp is cut and deep-fried until golden brown, then topped with sweet and sour sauce. It resembles a lion's mane, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, sweet and sour. 2. Zhengding Eight Bowls: Four meat and four vegetable dishes, meticulously prepared. The meat dishes are not greasy, and the vegetable dishes are not bland. 3. Clay Oven Rolls: Baked by sticking them to the inner wall of a clay oven, these rolls are round, golden brown, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They can be filled with donkey meat, etc. 🏨Accommodation guide: Recommended hotel: Xishan Shuyu Private Hot Spring Hotel Reasons for recommendation: 1. Detached villa-style hotel, each with its own private courtyard. 2. Private hot spring and entertainment facilities such as KTV. 🚄Transportation guide: 1. Zhengding Ancient City: Take bus No. 177. 💗Other tips: Keep warm in winter.

Escape Beijing on weekends🚄Five must-see cities for a short trip by high-speed rail✨✨✨ 😎Hey, guys! Do you want to escape Beijing on the weekend and take a spontaneous trip🧳? Today, I'll share five must-see cities accessible by high-speed rail, perfect for a short getaway, to make your weekend full of surprises😜! 🎈Tianjin🎈 From Beijing, it only takes about half an hour to reach Tianjin by high-speed rail😃! 🎯Featured attractions: Tianjin Eye🎡: This is a landmark building in Tianjin. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel to enjoy a panoramic view of the city. The night view is especially stunning, with all the glittering lights, super romantic💕! Ancient Culture Street🎊: This street is full of traditional Tianjin culture, with various handicraft shops🛍️ and snack stalls🍢. You can enjoy the food while experiencing the charm of traditional culture😋. Italian Style Area🏰: It feels like being in a European town, with many European-style buildings and streets. It's a great place for taking photos📷, and you can also enjoy authentic Italian food🍕. Itinerary: In the morning, you can go to the Tianjin Eye and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant😃. In the afternoon, go to Ancient Culture Street, stroll around the shops, and try some snacks😜. In the evening, go to the Italian Style Area and enjoy the romantic night view and dinner🍽️. 🎈Baoding🎈 Baoding is not far from Beijing, and it's easily accessible by high-speed rail😎. 🎯Featured attractions: The Residence of the Viceroy of Zhili Province🏛️: A great place to learn about the history of the Qing Dynasty. The architecture is simple and elegant, and you can feel the majesty of that era👍. Site of Baoding Military Academy📚: The first regular military academy in modern Chinese history, with a rich history📜. Mount Langya🗻: The natural scenery is magnificent, suitable for those who like hiking and trekking🧗‍♀️. The view from the top of the mountain is absolutely breathtaking😍! Itinerary: On the first day, after arriving in Baoding in the morning, visit the Residence of the Viceroy of Zhili Province😃. Have lunch nearby and try Baoding's specialties, such as Donkey Burger🥙. In the afternoon, go to the Site of Baoding Military Academy and experience the charm of history📜. On the second day, you can spend the whole day at Mount Langya, enjoying the beautiful scenery and challenging yourself physically🧗‍♀️. 🎈Shijiazhuang🎈 As the capital of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang also has many interesting places😃. 🎯Featured attractions: Zhengding Ancient City🏯: There are many ancient temples, city walls, and other buildings, full of historical atmosphere, as if you have traveled back in time🤩. Xibaipo Memorial Hall🖼️: A red tourism destination and an important place to learn about revolutionary history, very educational🎓. Shijiazhuang Zoo🦒: You can see all kinds of cute animals, suitable for families with children👨‍👩‍👧‍👦. Itinerary: On the first day, go to Zhengding Ancient City and stroll along the streets, admiring the charm of the ancient buildings😜. Have lunch in the ancient city and try the local cuisine. In the afternoon, you can visit some temples and other attractions🧐. On the second day, go to the Xibaipo Memorial Hall for some revolutionary history education🎓. If time permits, you can also visit Shijiazhuang Zoo in the afternoon🦒. 🎈Jinan🎈 Jinan, the City of Springs, is only a few hours away by high-speed rail😎. 🎯Featured attractions: Baotu Spring🪷: The best spring in the world. The spring water is crystal clear, and the gushing scene is spectacular. You must see it with your own eyes😍! Daming Lake🌊: The lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery, with many pavilions and towers, suitable for strolling and relaxing🚶‍♀️. Thousand Buddha Mountain⛰️: There are numerous Buddha statues and temples on the mountain, and the natural scenery is also very good. Climbing the mountain offers a panoramic view of Jinan🤩. Itinerary: On the first day, after arriving in Jinan in the morning, go straight to Baotu Spring and enjoy the spring scenery😃. Have lunch nearby, and in the afternoon, go to Daming Lake for a stroll and take some photos📷. On the second day, you can go to Thousand Buddha Mountain, climb the mountain, pray for blessings, and enjoy the beauty of nature⛰️. 🎈Qinhuangdao🎈 For those who want to go to the beach, look here😎! 🎯Featured attractions: Beidaihe Beach🏖️: Soft sand, clear water. Here you can enjoy the sun and the beach, and also play various water sports🏄‍♀️. Shanhaiguan Ancient City🏰: The starting point of the Great Wall, with a long history. The city walls are magnificent, and there are many historical sites to visit inside the city🧐. Old Dragon's Head🚢: Where the Great Wall meets the sea. The scenery is unique. Standing on the Old Dragon's Head, you can feel the vastness of the sea and the majesty of the Great Wall👍. Itinerary: On the first day, after arriving in Qinhuangdao in the morning, go to Beidaihe Beach and have fun😜. Have a seafood feast by the sea for lunch🦀. In the afternoon, you can continue to enjoy your leisure time on the beach. On the second day, go to Shanhaiguan Ancient City and visit the ancient city and the Old Dragon's Head, experiencing the blend of history and nature😃. 😘Guys, aren't these five cities amazing😎? Take the high-speed rail this weekend and embark on a wonderful short trip🚄! I believe it will leave you with unforgettable memories💕! Remember to like and save this post👍, you might need it someday😜!

#2024TravelWish Qingfeng Gorge is located in Lishui City, Zhejiang Province. It is one of the ten scenic spots of East and West Rocks in ancient times. It is located in the south of Zhuobi Peak and next to Chishi Tower. The gorge is more than 50 meters long, 68 meters high and only 4 meters wide. The two walls are as deep as if they were cut by a knife or an axe, and the blue sky is squeezed into a line as you walk through the gorge. A cool breeze blows. Qingfeng Gorge is a place that has the courage to accommodate the three major religions of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. Qingfeng Gorge is an example, perhaps an isolated one. In this valley, the Taoist Yunlu Palace is located on the top of the mountain.

Surabaya is not only a classic tourist attraction in red. Every winter, the ice waterfall in Lishui is a highlight. The milk-colored ice waterfall has a faint blue color and enters the icefall area. Like the residence of the fairy sister in the martial arts film and television drama! With sunny days and sunsets, I dont know how beautiful it will be. The colored sky makes the ice waterfall reflect more beautiful colors. People dont know whether its a dream or a reality...Be sure to wear the claws to experience it. ! The scenic spot is in Pingshan County, Shijiazhuang. The air quality is great. Every time it comes to the high blue sky, it takes a breath and it feels refreshing.

Popular cities are too crowded to move. I went through my travel records and picked out these 8 places. The scenery is great, the crowds are thin, and the pace is just right. If you're tired of waiting in lines, keep reading. 1️⃣ Jingzhou | Hubei To be honest, Jingzhou Ancient City is quite famous, but tourist numbers are often siphoned off by neighboring Wuhan. If you enter the city on a weekday, you can hear the echo of your own footsteps at the base of the city wall. ⏰ Get on the ancient city wall before 9:00 AM. The light is slanted, and the moss in the brick crevices looks best in photos. The loop is about 10 km. Don't try to walk the whole thing; rent a bike for around CNY 40, which is plenty for 2 hours. 🍜 At noon, duck into Zhangjuzheng Street for Zaotang noodles with a side of fish cake. The broth is a bit oily; if you have a sensitive stomach, ask them to go easy on the chili oil. The Jingzhou lantern folk customs depend on the timing. It's liveliest during the Lunar New Year; otherwise, it's just static displays, so don't get your hopes up too high. ⚠️ The museum is closed on Mondays. Don't plan your trip for that day. If you're traveling with seniors, only walk the section of the wall from the East Gate to Binyang Tower; it's flat and easy to walk. If you want to save energy, take the sightseeing car—don't push yourself. 2️⃣ Zhenjiang | Jiangsu Zhenjiang is the type of place in Jiangsu that people just pass through. Many people take the high-speed train to Nanjing without even glancing this way. I decided to stop for a station. Jinshan, Jiaoshan, and Beigu Mountain can be done in 1 day, but don't be greedy. Jinshan Temple is least crowded in the morning; the scent of incense mixed with the river breeze is very peaceful. You need to take a ferry to Jiaoshan Island. The ferry ticket is included in the admission ticket, so don't let people at the pier talk you into taking a private boat. ⏰ Save Beigu Mountain for dusk. Looking at the Yangtze River from Ganlu Temple, the sunset presses the water into a golden line—10 times better than during the day. Maoshan in Jurong is worth a separate day. There are many Taoist temples on the mountain and many steps; if your knees aren't great, just take the cable car. ⚠️ Food on the mountain is expensive and not great, so bring some snacks. For Zhenjiang's pot lid noodles, I recommend the shops without signs at the entrances of old residential areas; they're more authentic than the ones near the scenic spots. The aspic pork (yaorou) dipped in vinegar isn't greasy even for breakfast. 3️⃣ Lhasa | Tibet Lhasa isn't exactly "off-the-beaten-path," but most people just treat it as a layover. If you actually slow down and stay for 3 days, the experience is completely different. You need to book the Potala Palace in advance. Tickets are tight in peak season, so follow the official daily announcements. ⚠️ The steps inside the palace are steep, and the altitude is high. You'll be out of breath after a few steps, so don't push it—slow is fast. Follow the flow of pilgrims around Jokhang Temple in the morning. The smell of yak butter, the sound of chanting, and the stone slabs polished smooth by footsteps. ⏰ Sit in the square for a while in the evening and watch the believers prostrating; it's more moving than any scenic spot. Leave a full day for Namtso, as the round trip is long. It's windy by the lake, so a windbreaker is a must. It's around 5,000 meters above sea level; if you get a headache, head back down—don't gamble with it. 📌 The sweet tea houses around Barkhor Street are great. It's CNY 1 a cup, and no one will rush you if you sit for the whole afternoon. Perfect for solo travelers to zone out. 4️⃣ Jinhua | Zhejiang Jinhua has had all its thunder stolen by Hengdian. Actually, the city itself is quite comfortable, with a slow pace and friendly prices. Hengdian World Studios is divided into several zones, and you can't possibly see it all in 1 day. My advice is to pick just 2: the Qin King Palace for the architecture, and the Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival for the street life. ⚠️ Don't buy the all-inclusive ticket; it's a waste of money and legs. If you want to run into a film crew, hang around the Ming and Qing Palace area on weekday mornings for a higher chance. But don't block people like a paparazzi—it's not classy. The Shuanglong Scenic Area is north of the city and accessible by bus. It's cool inside the karst cave, like having air conditioning on in the summer. The ground is slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. 🍜 In the city, try the Jinhua ham stew—salty, fresh, and great with rice. The Baozhuang food street is only lively at night, so don't go in the afternoon and end up disappointed. 5️⃣ Linyi | Shandong Linyi has never had much of a presence, but its underground karst caves and mountains are worth a special trip. The Firefly Water Cave and Underground Grand Canyon scenic area are right next to each other, so it's more cost-effective to buy a joint ticket. ⏰ Go into the cave in the morning when it's less crowded, so you don't have to wait in line for the underground river rafting. The cave has a constant temperature, so bring a light jacket in the summer. ⚠️ The rafting will splash water, so put your phone in a waterproof bag beforehand. Things sold at the entrance are cheaper than inside, so don't rush to buy them inside. The Yimong Mountain range is huge. Guimeng and Yunmeng are 2 separate areas, so don't mix them up. If you want to see the sunrise, stay on the mountain; if you want to see the canyon, go to Yunmeng. If you have kids, choose Yunmeng—the paths are gentler. 📌 The stir-fried chicken at the farmhouses at the foot of the mountain is made to order, so waiting 40 minutes is normal. If you're in a hurry, call ahead and have them start stewing it. 6️⃣ Xiamen | Fujian Xiamen isn't off-the-beaten-path, but all the tourists are crowded into Zhongshan Road and Zengcuo'an. Change your route, and it's instantly peaceful. Take the first ferry to Gulangyu Island in the morning, before 8:00 AM. At that time, the only people in the alleys are the street sweepers and cats. ⚠️ There are no cars on the island. If you have a lot of luggage, store it at the pier; don't drag your suitcase up the hills. The Railway Culture Park is where locals go for walks. The abandoned tracks have been turned into a walking trail with dense shade. ⏰ Go in the evening when it's cool, and you can walk to the entrance of the Hongshan Tunnel. Nanputuo Temple is free, but you have to wait in line for the vegetarian cakes. You can overlook Xiamen University from the mountain behind the temple; if you have the energy, take a walk up. The mist in the rainforest area of the Xiamen Botanical Garden is on a schedule, so check the times before you go, or you'll be waiting for nothing. 🚄 Buses on the island are more reliable than taxis; when traffic jams, nothing moves. It's suitable for couples to wander slowly, not for people rushing through an itinerary. 7️⃣ Shijiazhuang | Hebei Shijiazhuang is often treated as a transit point, but it actually hides some real gems in its surroundings. Xibaipo and Zhaozhou Bridge are perfect for 1.5 days. I recommend going to Xibaipo in the morning when it's less crowded and you can hear the guide clearly. ⚠️ It's closed on Mondays. Don't show up then. It's a bit remote, so driving yourself is most convenient; bus schedules are infrequent. Zhaozhou Bridge is in Zhaoxian County, an hour's drive from the city. The bridge itself isn't huge, but standing on it and looking at the Xiao River, you can understand why it has stood for 1,400 years. ⏰ The light hits the bridge in the afternoon, which is great for photos. 🍜 Eat donkey meat burgers in Zhaoxian; they're cheaper than in the city. Bring 2 Shita sesame cakes too—they're crispy. This route is suitable for seniors as there are many flat roads and less walking. For families, the history of Zhaozhou Bridge might not interest kids, but they can play in the water under the bridge. 8️⃣ Pingxiang | Jiangxi Wugong Mountain has been a bit popular these past 2 years, but Pingxiang city remains quiet. Most people head straight for the mountain top and overlook the city at their feet. The hiking route for Wugong Mountain is well-established, and 2 days and 1 night is the standard. ⏰ Go up the mountain in the afternoon to catch the sunset, and come down after watching the sunrise the next day. ⚠️ Tent prices on the mountain double during holidays, so book in advance or bring your own. If you have average stamina, take the 2-stage cable car to save half the effort. The meadow section from the Golden Summit to Fayunjie is the highlight, so don't just check in at the Golden Summit and leave. 📌 You can start the hike from Shenzi Village or Longshan Village at the foot of the mountain. The path from Longshan Village is gentler and suitable for beginners. Bring enough cash; cell signal on the mountain is spotty. 🍜 When you come down to Pingxiang city, have a bowl of stir-fried rice noodles with egg and meat—it's spicy enough to wake you up. None of these 8 places rely on filters. They are uncrowded because they don't compete for attention. Pick a weekend and go stay for 2 days. Tell me in the comments which one you want to visit first.

Traveling in September, the biggest fear is spending money, getting stuck in crowds, and having photos filled with the backs of people's heads. I've picked 8 places that are perfect for September, right between the end of summer vacation and the National Day rush. They have fewer crowds, stable prices, and great weather. 01 Nantong | Jiangsu Haohe River is the ancient water artery of Nantong. Walking around it is like getting a feel for the city's slow pace. ⏰ Go to the Haoxi Road section before 7:00 AM. There are more locals exercising than tourists, and the water is quiet enough to hear the sound of sculling oars. 📍 The Haohe River cruise pier is near Nan Park. Take a boat during the day to see the modern architecture along the banks, or at night to see the lights. I recommend the daytime cruise; the night cruise feels a bit like a tour group experience. 🍜 After getting off the boat, head to South Street for a bowl of clam noodles—the savory flavor is the pride of Nantong locals in the morning. Fishing season has just opened in September, so the clams are plump. ⚠️ Most museums along the Haohe River are closed on Mondays, so check before planning your itinerary. It's very suitable for seniors; the route is flat, and there are benches along the river if you get tired. 02 Guyuan | Ningxia The Xumishan Grottoes are hidden in the mountain gullies northwest of Guyuan. Visiting in September, the wind carries the scent of loess mixed with grass. There are no long queues like at the Mogao Caves; you can stand under the Great Buddha Hall and take your time. 📍 The grottoes are spread across eight cliff faces. After entering, first see the Tang Dynasty seated Buddha in the Great Buddha Hall, then head to the Xiangguo Temple area. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the side light hits the niches, making the outlines clearest. 🚄 It's about a 1-hour taxi ride from Guyuan Station. I recommend chartering a car for the round trip, as it's hard to get a ride back. ⚠️ It's dark inside the caves, so bring a small flashlight, but do not use flash when photographing the murals. Guyuan is already a bit cool in September, so bring a light jacket for mornings and evenings. If you love grotto art but hate crowds, this place is much more comfortable than the popular ones. 03 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Xibaipo and Zhaozhou Bridge are in different locations—one in the mountains of Pingshan County and the other in Zhao County, with Shijiazhuang city in between. If you want to visit both in 1 day, you'll spend nearly 3 hours on the road. I suggest splitting it into 2 days. 📍 It's best to visit Zhaozhou Bridge in the morning before the tour groups arrive, so you can walk across it. You'll only truly appreciate the open-spandrel design of this Sui Dynasty stone arch bridge when you stand beneath it. 🍜 There's an old donkey meat burger shop in Zhao County, a 10-minute drive from the bridge. The crust is crispy and the meat is fragrant. ⚠️ The exhibition halls at Xibaipo stop admitting visitors at 4:00 PM, so don't arrive right at the deadline. 🚄 There are intercity buses from Shijiazhuang Station to Zhao County. For Xibaipo, I recommend driving or chartering a car. The temperature difference in the mountains is significant in September, so bringing a jacket is a good idea. 04 Weihai | Shandong Chengshantou, Huaxia City, and Liugong Island each have a distinct vibe. Chengshantou is wild and remote, Liugong Island is steeped in modern history, and Huaxia City is a man-made attraction. If you're short on time, skip Huaxia City. 📍 Watching the sunrise at Chengshantou is worth it. In September, sunrise is around 5:30 AM, so check in advance. The sea breeze is strong, so don't stand too close to the edge of the rocks. 🚄 It's about a 15-minute taxi ride from Weihai Station to the Liugong Island ferry terminal. Buy the ferry ticket and island admission ticket together. ⚠️ The cable car on Liugong Island has long queues. If you're fit, just walk the island loop road; the scenery is just as good. 🍜 In the evening, head back to the city and find a seafood stall at Hanlefang. In September, the crabs and mantis shrimp are plump. Weihai is great for bringing parents; the pace is slow and the roads are flat. 05 Baiyin | Gansu The Yellow River Stone Forest is in Jingtai County, Baiyin. Visiting in September, the Gobi wind isn't dry, and the sun isn't harsh. The stone forest is a cluster of earth pillars carved by the Yellow River. Standing on the viewing platform, it looks like a wave frozen in time. 📍 In the scenic area, you can take a donkey cart into the valley or ride a horse up the mountain. I chose the donkey cart; it's slow, but you can listen to the driver explain what each pillar looks like. ⏰ The light is best between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, when the earth forest turns reddish. ⚠️ There are few supply points in the scenic area, so bring enough water and don't be lazy about sun protection. 🚄 It's about a 2-hour drive from Lanzhou, or an hour and a half from downtown Baiyin. September is the most comfortable month here—wear short sleeves at noon and add a jacket in the morning and evening. 06 Taizhou | Zhejiang Tiantai Mountain, Taizhou Prefecture City, and Shenxianju are in different directions in Taizhou. Visiting in September, the typhoon season is mostly over, but the moisture in the mountains remains, so there's a good chance of seeing a sea of clouds. 📍 For Shenxianju, I recommend taking the Nantian Cable Car up and the Beihai Cable Car down to complete a large loop. ⏰ Arrive at the South Gate before 8:00 AM to get on the cable car before the crowds. 🍜 In Taizhou Prefecture City, walk along Ziyang Street in Linhai and snack on seaweed cakes and egg-white sheep tails. ⚠️ It's not suitable to enter Guoqing Temple on Tiantai Mountain after 4:00 PM, as the monks hold evening prayers. This route is best for self-driving; public transport transfers take too much time. Shenxianju isn't too sunny in September, but it's windy on the mountain, so bring a windbreaker. 07 Pingxiang | Jiangxi Visiting Wugong Mountain in September, the meadows are still green, but it's already cool in the mornings and evenings. It's a favorite for hikers and a place where regular tourists can take a cable car up to see the sea of clouds. 📍 With 2 cable car stages plus hiking, it takes about 3 to 4 hours from the foot of the mountain to the Golden Summit. ⏰ If you want to see the sea of clouds, stay on the mountain and wake up at 5:30 AM the next morning to wait for it. ⚠️ The tent campsite on the summit is only about 10 degrees at night in September, so make sure your sleeping bag is thick enough. Instant noodles at the Golden Summit cost CNY 15 a cup; it's more cost-effective to carry your own up. 🍜 After descending, go to downtown Pingxiang for a bowl of stir-fried rice noodles—it's authentically spicy. Wugong Mountain is suitable for those with at least average physical fitness; if you have children, taking the cable car to Zhong'an is enough. 08 Baoting | Hainan Many people think September is the off-season in Hainan, but Baoting is in the mountains and is several degrees cooler than Sanya. Binglanggu and Yanoda offer different experiences: one for Li and Miao culture, the other for exploring the rainforest. 📍 Go to Binglanggu in the morning to see intangible cultural heritage performances and boat-shaped houses. 🍜 Have Li-style bamboo rice in the scenic area for lunch. In the afternoon, head to Yanoda to walk the rainforest boardwalk; it's coolest by the waterfalls. ⚠️ September is still the tail end of typhoon season, so check the weather forecast before you go. There are many mosquitoes in the rainforest, so long pants and mosquito repellent are essential. 🚄 It's about a 1-hour drive from Sanya, and there are shuttle buses from Baoting county to both scenic areas. It's great for families with children; kids will love the stream trekking in Yanoda. Traveling in September is all about peace and quiet. Of these 8 places, the ones I most want to visit again are Wugong Mountain and Xumishan. Pick one and go while it's still uncrowded.

Take the kids for a 3-day getaway during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day: 8 spots for a relaxing, slow-paced trip 01 Laibin | Guangxi When taking kids to Laibin, my first thought is the mountains in Jinxiu. It's best to enter the Panwangjie area of Dayao Mountain in the morning; when the mist hasn't cleared, walking on the boardwalk feels like walking in the clouds. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid crowds. Strollers aren't ideal, but a baby carrier works fine. The steps at Jinxiu Lotus Mountain are a bit tough for younger children. Elementary schoolers and older will be excited, counting the little flowers in the rock crevices along the way. 📍 Banshanting is the only place to rest and eat snacks; don't count on finding supplies along the way. Staying in Jinxiu County is the most convenient. Have a bowl of Yao-style oil tea in the evening; if the kids don't like it, switch to rice noodles. ⚠️ Temperatures drop quickly in the mountains after 4:00 PM, so be sure to pack a light jacket. If you visit during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, there will be mochi-pounding in the villages at the foot of the mountain, and kids can try their hand at it. Suitable for kids aged 4 and up; any younger and adults will be carrying them the whole time. 02 Tianshui | Gansu I recommend visiting the Maijishan Grottoes in the afternoon. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light hits the cliff at an angle, and the boardwalk isn't as exposed to the sun. If kids are afraid of heights and start complaining after a few steps, don't force it; the view from below is impressive enough. Wushan Water Curtain Cave is great for elementary schoolers—crawling through caves, touching water, and listening to echoes is more interesting than just looking at Buddha statues. 📍 The large relief at Lashao Temple can be seen from the roadside, so there's no need to climb too high. Visit Fuxi Temple in the evening; it's cool under the ancient cypress trees, and kids have plenty of room to run around. 🍜 Try the "guagua" and "ranran" on the street to the right of the exit. Add chili to your own taste, and get a clear soup version for the kids. ⚠️ Special grottoes at Maijishan require separate reservations and aren't included in the standard ticket. Don't overdo it with kids; 2 spots a day is just right, and head back to the city at noon for a nap. 03 Nanping | Fujian When taking kids to Wuyishan, the Nine-Bend Stream bamboo raft ride is the 1 thing you can't skip. ⏰ Take the first boat in the morning when there's mist on the water; kids can reach out to touch the splashes and stay entertained the whole way. Tip the boatman for some commentary; the stories are more captivating than the scenery. I'd advise you to think twice about Tianyou Peak. Don't climb it with kids under 6; the steps are steep, and you'll be exhausted from carrying them. 📍 Switch to the Yangu Huaxiang trail instead—it's flat, and kids can pick up stones by the stream. 🍜 The smoked goose in the resort area is a bit salty, so kids might not eat it. Order a bowl of Zixi rice noodles with a fried egg—a safe bet. In the evening, go see the Impression Da Hong Pao show; the chairs rotate, and kids will think of it as an amusement ride. ⚠️ Bamboo raft tickets are in high demand during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, so book 3 days in advance. Staying at a homestay in Nanyuanling is cheaper than inside the scenic area, and it's just a 10-minute taxi ride away. 04 Haidong | Qinghai The Huzhu Tu Nationality Hometown Park is perfect for a slow stroll. ⏰ There's a "Lunziqiu" (swing) performance at 10:00 AM that will keep the kids mesmerized. You can rent Tu ethnic costumes in the park for CNY 20 a set, which is cheaper than outside the scenic area. Youning Temple is on the mountain, and you can drive right to the entrance. Elementary schoolers will be curious about the butter sculptures, while younger kids can chase pigeons in the courtyard. 📍 The thresholds of the main hall are high; remind the kids to step over them and not step on them. 🍜 Head back to Huzhu County for hand-grabbed mutton paired with a bowl of boiled tea. If the kids aren't used to mutton, order the "mianpian" (noodle pieces) in clear soup. ⚠️ The altitude is over 2,000 meters, so don't let the kids run too hard, and make sure they drink plenty of water on the first day. During the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, there's the Anzhao dance in the square in the evening, and kids can join in the circle. Stay in Haidong city; there's a big temperature difference between day and night, so bring windbreakers. 05 Guyuan | Ningxia Xumishan Grottoes is an underrated spot. ⏰ Go in the morning when the sun shines into the Great Buddha Hall from the east—it's great for photos. Kids will feel like they're on an adventure with the caves on the cliffside and will keep asking who lived inside. 📍 There's a shuttle bus from the scenic area entrance to the grottoes; it's a must-take with kids, as walking 2 kilometers is too tiring. 🍜 Head back to Guyuan city for "shengcuan" noodles; a small bowl is enough, and the soup is delicious. ⚠️ Flash photography is not allowed inside the grottoes, so tell the kids in advance. Some caves require climbing narrow ladders, so don't take kids under 5. It's not too crowded during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, making for a relaxing visit. It's suitable for elementary schoolers, and you can tell them some Silk Road stories along the way. Stay in Yuanzhou District and visit Guyanling Park in the evening to let the kids burn off some energy. 06 Changsha | Hunan Visit Tianxin Pavilion in the morning; there are more elderly people exercising under the city wall than tourists. ⏰ Climb the pavilion at 8:00 AM while it's cool, and let the kids count the city bricks. 📍 The Bamboo Slips Museum below the pavilion is free; it's a great place to escape the midday sun with air conditioning while looking at bamboo slips. Don't crowd through the East Gate of Yuelu Mountain. With kids, enter through the South Gate, take the sightseeing car to the top, and then slowly make your way down. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, head to the street near Hunan University for "tangyou baba" (sugar-oil rice cakes)—eat them while they're hot. The Provincial Museum requires advance booking, and ⚠️ it's closed on Mondays. Huaminglou is in Ningxiang, a 1-hour drive away. Elementary schoolers will be interested in the old items in the former residence, while younger kids can run around in the courtyard. It's crowded during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, so leave early. Staying near Wuyi Square in Changsha is convenient; in the evening, take the kids to see the Xiangjiang River lights and have a bowl of non-spicy rice noodles. It's suitable for all ages, but there's a lot of walking, so have a stroller ready. 07 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Xibaipo and Zhaozhou Bridge make for a perfect 1-day trip. ⏰ Go to Xibaipo in the morning; the courtyards at the old site are large, giving kids plenty of room to run. 📍 There are some old photos in the exhibition hall that elementary schoolers can understand, but younger kids won't stay still and will want to leave after 20 minutes. For lunch, have "tiebingzi" (pan-baked corn cakes) and stewed vegetables in Pingshan—it's nice and hot. In the afternoon, head to Zhaozhou Bridge, a 1.5-hour drive. The stone slabs on the bridge are slippery, so ⚠️ hold the kids' hands tightly if it rains. Kids can play for half an hour throwing stones by the river under the bridge. The Zhaozhou Bridge scenic area isn't large; 1 hour is enough. It's suitable for elementary schoolers, and you can tell them a bit about bridge construction. There will be folk performances during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, so join in the fun. Stay in Shijiazhuang city and visit the Zhengding Ancient City in the evening; the lights are beautiful. Don't overschedule when traveling with kids; 2 spots a day is just right. 08 Yichang | Hubei When taking kids to the Yangtze Three Gorges, I choose Three Gorges Tribe and Qingjiang Gallery. ⏰ Go to Three Gorges Tribe in the morning to watch the "crying marriage" performance in the Tujia stilt houses; kids will find it novel. 📍 The flat section at Longjin Creek is stroller-friendly, and there are monkeys by the creek, so ⚠️ don't let the kids hold any food. Go to the Three Gorges Waterfall in the afternoon; buy a raincoat at the entrance for CNY 5. Kids will scream as they rush into the Water Curtain Cave and get soaked, so bring a change of clothes. Qingjiang Gallery is suitable for the second day; take a boat to see the mountains, and kids can enjoy the breeze on the deck. 🍜 In Yichang city, try the radish dumplings—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Stay near Wanda; it's nice to take a walk by the river in the evening. Boat tickets are tight during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, so book in advance. Suitable for kids aged 4 and up; there's a lot of walking, but it's stroller-friendly. For younger kids, focus on Qingjiang Gallery, as it's less tiring on the boat. Eight places, a 3-day getaway—pick 1 near you and go. When traveling with kids, doing less and sitting more is better than anything else.

🏆 King Chengde Mountain Resort, Shanhaiguan ⭐ Star Jinshanling Great Wall, Baishi Mountain, Aranya 💎 Diamond Eastern Qing Tombs, Western Qing Tombs, Yesanpo, Saihanba 🥇 Gold Zhengding Ancient City, Zhaozhou Bridge, Baiyangdian, Grassland Sky Road 🥈 Silver Wahuang Palace, Xibaipo, Beidaihe, Guangfu Ancient City, Office of the Governor-General of Zhili 🥉 Bronze Jingniang Lake, Kongshan White Cloud Cave, Xiangtangshan Grottoes, Dajingmen, Tangshan Nanhu Park

Don't want crowds for National Day? These 5 small cities are perfect for a slow-paced trip 01 Wuhu | Anhui If you're looking for a place that isn't crowded but still fun for National Day, Wuhu is a great choice. The Fantawild Tourist Area is the main attraction, but don't be naive and go during the first 2 days of the holiday—the lines will make you question your life choices. ⏰ We recommend going after Oct 3. Enter the park before 9:00 AM, head straight for "Fly Over the Limit" and "Magic Castle," then take your time with other attractions in the afternoon. 📍 Fantawild has 2 parks: Happy World and Dream Kingdom. If you're bringing kids, go straight to Dream Kingdom for gentler rides and more shows. For young people looking for thrills, go to Happy World—the Fire Meteor roller coaster is worth riding twice. 🍜 Food in the park is expensive and mediocre, so we recommend bringing your own bread and water. After leaving, take a taxi to Phoenix Food Street. The shrimp roe noodles and soup dumplings are local staples that people grow up eating; you can get stuffed for about CNY 30 per person. ⚠️ Fantawild has fireworks during the National Day night sessions, but getting a taxi when leaving is extremely difficult. Book a car in advance or take a shuttle bus to the city center and transfer from there. For accommodation, choose the Jinghu District; it's convenient for both Fantawild and the city center. 02 Xiangxi | Hunan Fenghuang Ancient Town is great for a slow stroll, but the area around the Tuojiang River gets quite crowded during National Day. ⏰ Head out before 7:00 AM. The stone-paved streets are almost empty, and the mist clinging to the river makes for great photos without having to fight for a spot. 📍 Walk from the North Gate Pier along the Tuojiang River to the Jumping Stones, then turn into East Gate Main Street. The whole way is lined with old houses and silver jewelry shops. Dehang Grand Canyon and Aizhai Bridge can be done on the same day. Looking at the canyon from under the Aizhai Bridge, the wind is strong enough to blow your hat off. The Liusha Waterfall in Dehang has just the right amount of water in autumn—not too fierce, but elegant. Shibadong Village is best for a self-driving trip, but the mountain roads are winding, so beginners should be careful. 🍜 Blood duck and sour soup fish are everywhere in Fenghuang, but don't eat at the restaurants in the first row along the river—they are expensive and the taste is mediocre. Walk 2 streets past Hongqiao Bridge to find restaurants where locals eat for about CNY 50 per person. ⚠️ The ancient town doesn't charge an entrance fee, but buy tickets for smaller attractions as needed; don't get fooled by touts. 03 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is the surprise of this trip. During National Day, the leaves on the mountain start to change color, mixing red, yellow, and green, which looks better than just plain green. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8:00 AM. It takes about 2 hours to walk from the South Gate to the summit. The path isn't too steep, so even seniors can walk it slowly. 📍 Flying Stone and A Thread of Sky are classic photo spots, but A Thread of Sky is narrow, so friends on the larger side might need to turn sideways to pass through. Laole Mountain is best visited in the afternoon. It's windy at the summit, so bring a light jacket. There is a field of pink muhly grass at the foot of the mountain; it's perfectly pink in October. There are many people taking photos, but the area is large, so it doesn't feel crowded. 🍜 In Zhumadian city, try the Hu-la soup and braised noodles. We recommend the old shops near Wenming Avenue, which open as early as 6:00 AM. ⚠️ Buy tickets for Chaya Mountain online in advance, as there are few ticket windows on-site. If you are driving, the parking lot is a bit far from the mountain gate, so allow extra time for walking. 04 Nanchong | Sichuan Langzhong Ancient Town is quieter than Lijiang and more authentic than Fenghuang. It's not exactly an "off-the-beaten-path" destination for National Day, but it's not so crowded that you can't move. ⏰ Head up to Zhongtian Tower after 5:00 PM to watch the sunset turn the blue-tiled roofs golden—it looks 10 times better than during the day. 📍 Enter from Zhuangyuan Archway, walk along Wumiao Street to Zhangfei Temple, then turn toward the Jialing River. The whole way is lined with vinegar workshops and beef shops. Baoning Vinegar is a local specialty; you can smell the sourness on the street. 🍜 Buy vacuum-packed Zhangfei Beef as a souvenir, but don't buy it on the main street of the scenic area—it's much cheaper if you walk into the small alleys. For breakfast, try the beef noodles. They are heavy on chili oil, so let them know in advance if you can't handle the spice. ⚠️ There are many inns in the ancient town, but those facing the river have bar noise at night, so choose an inner street if you're afraid of noise. Prices double during National Day, so book 2 weeks in advance. It's suitable for bringing parents along—the pace is slow and there's less walking. 05 Jiujiang | Jiangxi Lushan Scenic Area gets quite crowded during National Day, but it's still more relaxed than Huangshan. ⏰ Take the sightseeing bus up the mountain at 6:00 AM to avoid the tour groups. 📍 Visit Huajing and Ruqin Lake first, then walk through Jinxiu Valley to the Immortal's Cave. This section is flat and suitable for seniors. Sandiequan has many stairs, so we don't recommend it if you aren't physically fit. Lushan West Sea is a different scene, with vast waters and scattered islands. A boat tour of the lake takes about 2 hours. Boat frequency is increased during National Day, so you won't have to wait too long. 🍜 Stone chicken and stone fish are local dishes on the mountain, but they aren't cheap, starting at CNY 80 per person. We recommend bringing your own dry food and heading down to Jiujiang city for radish cakes and steamed rice cakes. ⚠️ Lushan entrance tickets and sightseeing bus tickets are sold separately. Accommodation on the mountain is tight during National Day, so either book in advance or stay at the foot of the mountain. There is a large temperature difference between day and night, so bring a jacket for the mountain in October. 06 Lhasa | Tibet Lhasa has plenty of sunshine during the day and is cool at night during National Day. Tickets for the Potala Palace must be reserved in advance. There are fewer tickets released during National Day, so if you can't get one, don't force it—the Yaowang Mountain Viewing Platform is just as good for panoramic shots. ⏰ Visit Jokhang Temple after 3:00 PM. There are many pilgrims, but the light is soft and the golden roof looks beautiful. Check the weather before going to Namtso Lake during National Day, as snow can close the roads. If you go, leave Lhasa at 6:00 AM. It's a 4-hour drive one way, and the altitude is high, so don't jump around. 📍 Tashi Peninsula is the main viewing spot. It's windy by the lake, so dress warmly. 🍜 In Lhasa city, try Tibetan noodles and sweet tea. Guangming Gangqiong Sweet Tea House is popular with locals and costs CNY 1 per cup. ⚠️ Don't shower or drink alcohol when you first arrive in Lhasa; take a day to acclimate. Photography is not allowed inside the Potala Palace, and there is a fee to store bags. 07 Mudanjiang | Heilongjiang Jingpo Lake is at its most beautiful in autumn during National Day, with the colorful mountains reflected on the lake, which looks better than in summer. ⏰ Take a boat tour of the lake in the morning, go to Diaoshuilou Waterfall at noon, and in the afternoon, the light hits the waterfall at an angle, creating rainbows in the mist. 📍 There is a boardwalk below the waterfall viewing platform where you can experience the mist up close, but the steps are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. In Mudanjiang city, you can visit Riverside Park and have Korean-style BBQ and cold noodles for dinner. 🍜 We recommend the small shops in the Korean ethnic enclave. Dog meat soup and rice cakes are specialties, but the dog meat is a matter of personal preference. ⚠️ Accommodation at Jingpo Lake is expensive during National Day, so we recommend staying in Mudanjiang city and driving there in the morning, which takes about 1.5 hours. 08 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Xibaipo and Zhaozhou Bridge can be combined into a 1-day trip. ⏰ Go to Xibaipo in the morning. The exhibition area is free but requires a reservation. Spots are limited during National Day, so book 3 days in advance. 📍 A tour of the exhibition hall and the old residences takes about 2 hours, which is suitable for seniors. In the afternoon, drive to Zhaozhou Bridge, which takes about 1.5 hours. Zhaozhou Bridge itself isn't large and can be seen in 30 minutes. However, the Xiao River under the bridge and the surrounding parks are great for walking. The leaves turn yellow in autumn, making for great photos. 🍜 In Shijiazhuang city, try the Ganglu baked flatbread and donkey meat burger. We recommend the time-honored brands, which cost about CNY 20 per person. ⚠️ Parking at Xibaipo is limited, so go early during National Day. Zhaozhou Bridge tickets aren't expensive, but there are no facilities nearby, so bring your own water. This route is best for self-driving; public transport is a hassle. These 5 small cities won't leave you exhausted after a National Day trip, and they won't break the bank either. Which one do you want to visit the most? Or if you have your own hidden gems, share them in the comments.

The crowds for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day haven't arrived yet, and this September lull feels like a stolen vacation. Airfares have dropped, homestays are easier to negotiate, and there are no lines at attractions. I've picked 8 cool, lesser-known cities to visit while it's still quiet. 1️⃣ Nanyang | Henan Xixia Funiu Mountain Laojieling · Dinosaur Fossil Site Tourist Area. Bring a light jacket for the mountain in September. ⏰ Take the cable car up to Laojieling in the morning; the chances of seeing a sea of clouds are higher than in midsummer, and you'll be down before the midday sun. 📍 The Dinosaur Fossil Site is at the foot of the mountain. If you're bringing kids, allow two hours. The fossil pits are real, not plastic models. A tip to avoid pitfalls: The restaurants on the mountain are expensive and mediocre, so bring your own bread and water. ⚠️ The cable car stops running around 4:00 PM, so don't cut it too close. September is rainy, and if it's too foggy, you won't see anything from the observation deck, so check the real-time weather before you head out. Best for: Families in the Central Plains who want to escape the heat without traveling too far. It's about a 2-hour drive from downtown Nanyang, and the road conditions are good. In the half-month before the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, it's empty enough to take photos anywhere. 2️⃣ Chuxiong | Yunnan For Yuanmou Earth Forest and Wumao Earth Forest, I suggest choosing one—don't try to do both. Wumao Earth Forest was developed earlier, has easy boardwalks, and is suitable for seniors. Yuanmou Earth Forest is wilder with more dramatic light and shadow, perfect for photographers. ⏰ The golden hour is from 4:00 PM until sunset. Seeing the earth forest turn golden-red in the sun is worth the price of admission. Visit the Yi Ancient Town in the evening; it's mostly just shops during the day. 🍜 Find a mushroom hot pot restaurant in the ancient town. September is the tail end of mushroom season, so ask about prices before ordering. 📍 The alley to the left after entering the ancient town archway is quieter than the main street and has more authentic food. ⚠️ There's no shade in the earth forest, so a hat and water are essential. It's windy, so be careful not to lose your drone. Chuxiong is a popular destination around Kunming during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, so going now is perfect for avoiding the crowds. 3️⃣ Jingmen | Hubei Xianling Mausoleum culture—this place is underrated. ⏰ Get there right when it opens at 8:30 AM. The light hits the sacred way of the mausoleum at an angle, and it's quiet enough to hear the birds. 📍 It's about a 20-minute walk from the visitor center, or you can take a sightseeing car to save energy. Ming dynasty history buffs will love it; 2 hours is enough for the average tourist. ⚠️ There isn't much to eat in the mausoleum area, so wait until you get to downtown Zhongxiang. 🍜 Try the Panlong vegetable and rice tea in Zhongxiang; locals drink rice tea in the morning. Jingmen is still hot in September, but cooler than Wuhan. It's best as a stopover; making a special trip might not be worth it. Even on weekends before the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, it's not crowded, and parking is easy. 4️⃣ Shijiazhuang | Hebei Xibaipo and Zhaozhou Bridge can be done in 1 day, but you need to get the pace right. ⏰ Go to Xibaipo in the morning; it's cool in the mountains, and the tour takes about 2 hours. Head back to the city for a Zhengding-style lunch, then visit Zhaozhou Bridge in the afternoon. Zhaozhou Bridge is now a park. You only need half an hour to see the bridge itself; spend the rest of the time walking along the river. 📍 There are information signs at the bridgehead, so you can read them yourself without hiring a guide. ⚠️ Xibaipo is often closed on Mondays, so check before you go. It's about a 1.5-hour drive between the two spots. The temperature difference between morning and evening in Shijiazhuang starts to increase in September, so bring a long-sleeved shirt. 🍜 Find a place in the city that makes ganglu shaobing (clay oven rolls) with meat—it's cheap and filling. Great for traveling with parents; there's not much walking, and it has a good sense of history. 5️⃣ Haikou | Hainan Haikou is in the off-season in September. It's hot but cheap, and hotel prices are almost half of what they are in winter. Visit the Temple of the Five Lords in the morning when there's plenty of shade; ⏰ 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM is the most comfortable time. 📍 Take a taxi to Qilou Old Street and have spicy soup rice for lunch. Qilou Old Street is too sunny in the afternoon, so I recommend going in the evening when the lights come on. The Volcano Park requires a separate half-day. 📍 Walking the crater trail takes about 1 hour; if you have children, keep an eye on them. ⚠️ Don't buy the volcanic stones sold in the park; they're heavy and expensive. 🍜 For Haikou's qingbuliang (chilled dessert) and Hainan rice noodles, just find a shop crowded with locals. There are often afternoon thunderstorms in September, so bring an umbrella. Prices in Haikou will rise during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, so going now is a great way to save money. 6️⃣ Gannan | Gansu Zhagana, Langmu Temple, Yeliguan, and Gahai Lake—September is the most comfortable time of year in Gannan. ⏰ Watch the morning mist in Zhagana; the village is surrounded by mountains and looks like a painting. Visit Langmu Temple in the afternoon to see the sunset over Red Rock Cliff. Yeliguan is great for hiking; if you're not very fit, just take the short route. There are many water birds at Gahai Lake in September, so bring binoculars. ⚠️ The altitude in Gannan is around 3,000 meters, so don't run or jump, and get to sleep early on the first night. If you're driving, don't exceed 300 km per day. 📍 There's a place in Langmu Temple town that makes Tibetan buns, which are perfect for breakfast. 🍜 Gannan's yak yogurt is authentically sour, so add sugar before eating. It gets congested here during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, but in September, the roads are clear and it's easy to book accommodation. 7️⃣ Jincheng | Shanxi Huangcheng Xiangfu Ecological Cultural Tourist Area—don't be fooled by the word "ecological." The core is the castle-style official residence. ⏰ Get in before 9:00 AM to avoid tour groups. 📍 There's a shuttle bus from the residence to the nearby ecological park, but it's only a 10-minute walk. There are many steps in the residence, so wear comfortable shoes. ⚠️ Some performances inside have fixed times, so check the schedule when you enter to avoid missing them and having to backtrack. 🍜 In Jincheng, have a bowl of meatball instant noodles in the morning—it's a local way to eat, and they close up shop before 10:00 AM. Jincheng is cool in September with crisp autumn weather. It's suitable for people who like ancient architecture and photography; the light and shadow on the city walls have great depth. There are few tourists before the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, so you can listen to the guides at your own pace. 8️⃣ Jinzhou | Liaoning Yiwulu Mountain. September is the perfect time to go; the maple leaves in the mountains aren't red yet, but they are a deep, rich green. ⏰ Hike in the morning, reach the main peak before noon, and head down in the afternoon when the light changes to take photos. 📍 It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from downtown Beizhen to the mountain gate. The mountain isn't too steep, so seniors can walk it slowly. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring enough water. 🍜 After heading down, go back to downtown Jinzhou for barbecue. Jinzhou barbecue is legendary; order the small skewers by the handful. It's cool in Jinzhou in the morning and evening in September, so bring a jacket. Even on weekends before the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, it's not crowded, and parking is easy to find. This place is the type that's quietly fun—don't expect it to be mind-blowing, but it's comfortable. This off-peak travel window in September is basically trading time for a better experience. Fewer people, lower prices, and stable weather—it's much better than squeezing in during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day. I'd love to visit Gannan and Nanyang again. How about you?

The summer vacation has just ended, flight and hotel prices have plummeted, and wait times at attractions have been cut in half. I've selected 8 places that are comfortable, scenic, and not too crowded in September. Here are some practical tips for each. 01 Pingdingshan | Henan Yaoshan and the Zhongyuan Buddha are right next to each other and can be visited in one day. ⏰ Go to Yaoshan in the morning. It's cool in the mountains in September, so bring a light jacket. After taking the cable car, walk the Qinglongbei section for the best views. 📍 The Zhongyuan Buddha is at the foot of Yaoshan. Visit it on your way back in the afternoon. There are many stairs, so take the sightseeing shuttle if you have bad knees. Don't rush to leave after descending Yaoshan; staying a night in the hot spring town at the foot of the mountain is worth it. 🍜 Try the local Lan Guo Cai with Laomo; the portions are large and filling, so a small order is enough for two people. ⚠️ Cable car lines are significantly longer on weekends; try to go between Tuesday and Thursday instead of Friday. Driving is the most convenient; it's a little over 2 hours from Zhengzhou. If you're not driving, there are direct shuttle buses from Pingdingshan Station to Yaoshan, but they are infrequent, so check the return times in advance. 02 Changzhi | Shanxi Baquan Gorge in the Taihang Grand Canyon is the highlight. The gorge is humid, and walking through it in September feels cool. ⏰ I recommend arriving at the entrance before 8:00 AM. Take the boat first, then walk the boardwalk; if you do it in reverse, you'll be walking against the crowd. Baquan Gorge is not in the same area as other parts of the Taihang Grand Canyon, so don't expect to see everything in one day. If it's your first time, focus on Baquan Gorge. After the boat ride, walk along the stream; the waterfall section with the large drop is the most photogenic. 📍 Hongdou Gorge is suitable for those with average stamina; the path is flat and easy for seniors and children. 🍜 The millet rice and lamb soup in Huguan County are worth a meal; food in the scenic area is expensive and mediocre. ⚠️ Some sections of the gorge are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes—don't wear white sneakers unless you want to ruin them. There are shuttle buses from Changzhi East Station to Huguan, then transfer to the scenic area shuttle. If you're in a group, chartering a car isn't much more expensive than the bus. 03 Wanning | Hainan In September, Hainan is not yet in peak season, and Shimei Bay and Riyue Bay are surprisingly empty. ⏰ Go to Shimei Bay in the morning when the sea is calm, perfect for swimming. In the afternoon, the waves pick up at Riyue Bay, and surfers start to gather. The sand at Shimei Bay is fine, and if you walk along the coastline, you can basically have a stretch all to yourself. 📍 Riyue Bay is all about surfing. If you don't know how, you can sign up for a trial lesson; the instructor will guide you one-on-one, and you can stand on the board within two hours. ⚠️ September is still typhoon season, so keep a close eye on the weather before you leave. If there's a typhoon warning, all water activities will be suspended. 🍜 Wanning Hou'an rice noodle soup is a local breakfast staple; add an egg, and you'll have a satisfying meal for around 10 yuan. For accommodation, Shimei Bay is quieter, while Riyue Bay has many homestays but can be a bit noisy at night—choose based on whether you want peace or a lively atmosphere. It takes about 30 minutes by taxi from Wanning Station to either bay. High-speed trains from Haikou or Sanya are convenient. 04 Aba | Sichuan September is the most comfortable time for Jiuzhaigou, Huanglong, and Siguniang Mountain. ⏰ Get to Jiuzhaigou early, take the sightseeing bus to Changhai, and then walk down to avoid the crowds. Huanglong is at a high altitude, so walk slowly and avoid running or jumping. Shuangqiao Valley in Siguniang Mountain is perfect if you don't want to climb; with the sightseeing bus and boardwalks, the snow-capped mountains are right in front of you. 📍 Changping Valley is suitable for hiking enthusiasts; how far you go depends on your stamina, so don't push yourself. ⚠️ Huanglong and Siguniang Mountain are both over 3,000 meters above sea level, so don't drink alcohol the night before and bring some glucose. You must book Jiuzhaigou tickets in advance through official channels; spots are limited during peak season, so book as soon as your itinerary is set. 🍜 Tibetan hot pot and yak meat near the entrance are worth a try, but don't have high expectations. There are buses from Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station to Jiuzhaigou; it's a long trip, so bring motion sickness medicine if you get carsick. Flying to Jiuhuang Airport is easier, but flights are heavily affected by weather. 05 Changde | Hunan September is the perfect time to visit the Taohuayuan Tourist Area to avoid the summer heat and the National Day crowds. ⏰ Enter the scenic area in the morning and start with the boat ride on Qinxi; the water is cool, and the scenery on both banks is like a painting. The core areas are Qin Valley and Taohua Mountain, which take half a day to explore at a leisurely pace. 📍 The ancient architectural complex on Taohua Mountain is worth a stop; the ginkgo trees start to turn yellow in autumn, making for great photos. ⚠️ The scenic area is large, so wear comfortable shoes—don't wear new shoes that will give you blisters. 🍜 Changde rice noodles are a signature dish; get them with beef toppings and a fried egg for a breakfast that will keep you energized all day. Food in the scenic area is expensive; it's more practical to eat in the city. It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Changde Station to Taohuayuan. For a more comfortable stay, hotels in the city offer better value than those around the scenic area. 06 Hulunbuir | Inner Mongolia In September, the Hulunbuir Grassland begins to turn yellow, which only adds to its sense of vastness. ⏰ The light is best in the early morning and at dusk; avoid the strong midday UV rays. Driving yourself on the grassland is the most liberating way to travel, allowing you to stop and enjoy the scenery whenever you like. 📍 The grasslands around the Morigele River offer expansive views, perfect for photography. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is significant; it's no exaggeration to say you'll need a short-sleeved shirt during the day and a down jacket at night, so you must bring a warm coat. 🍜 Hand-grabbed meat and milk tea are staples; finding a local herdsman's home to eat is more authentic than a restaurant in the scenic area. Agree on the price and duration for horse riding beforehand to avoid being overcharged. Hailar is the best base; renting a car from there is the most convenient. There are fewer tourists in September, and accommodation prices are much cheaper than in July and August. 07 Yanbian | Jilin September is crisp and cool at the Liuding Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone, making it a pleasant time for hiking. ⏰ Go in the morning, visit the Golden Buddha first, then walk down the mountain path; the whole trip takes 3–4 hours. 📍 Zhengjue Temple and the Buddhist Cultural Zone are right next to each other, so take your time exploring. The mountain isn't high, so it's accessible for seniors, and there's a sightseeing shuttle if you get tired. ⚠️ Keep quiet inside the temple and dress appropriately. 🍜 Don't miss the cold noodles and BBQ in Yanji. It's a half-hour high-speed train ride from Dunhua to Yanji, which is well worth it for a meal. Liuding Mountain is in Dunhua, and it's a 10-minute taxi ride from Dunhua Station. Autumn colors start to appear in Yanbian in September, and the leaves on the mountain turn yellow, adding layers to the scenery. If you want to take photos, bring a telephoto lens; the Buddha statue is a great subject. 08 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Xibaipo and Zhaozhou Bridge are in Pingshan and Zhaoxian respectively; don't try to visit both in one day—it's more relaxed to split them over two days. ⏰ Go to Xibaipo in the morning and have a farmhouse meal nearby after your visit. Go to Zhaozhou Bridge in the afternoon; the ancient bridge looks best in the soft light. 📍 The Zhaozhou Bridge scenic area is small and can be explored in an hour; focus on the stone carvings on the bridge and the flowing water underneath. ⚠️ Some exhibition halls in Xibaipo are closed on Mondays, so check the opening hours before you leave. 🍜 Donkey meat burgers and snow pears in Zhaoxian are local specialties; pears are just coming into season in September, so buy a few to eat on the road. The stews at the farmhouses around Xibaipo are hearty and reasonably priced. It takes about an hour and a half to drive from downtown Shijiazhuang to Xibaipo, and about an hour to Zhaozhou Bridge. Driving is the most convenient; public transport takes too long. These 8 places in September are cool, uncrowded, and have lower prices—pick one, take two days off, and you're good to go. If I had to recommend just one, I'd choose Jiuzhaigou over Hulunbuir; the autumn colors are unbeatable. Which one do you want to visit most? Let me know in the comments.

Off-peak travel in September–October: these 8 places are uncrowded and budget-friendly 01 Baicheng | Jilin By late September, the breeze at Nenjiang Bay already carries the dry scent of reeds. ⏰ Go after 4:00 PM, when the light hits the river at an angle, turning the entire wetland golden. 📍 Da'an Nenjiang Bay Tourist Area is about a 1-hour drive from Baicheng city center. Driving is recommended, as public transport is frustratingly infrequent. Admission is affordable; please check official daily announcements for details. 🍜 Head back to the city center for a restaurant serving river fish. Braised crucian carp with tofu is a local specialty, with a broth as white as milk. Avoid eating near the scenic area entrance; it's pricey and mediocre. ⚠️ Wetland mosquitoes are still active in late September, so wear long sleeves, long pants, and use repellent—don't ask me how I know. It's great for seniors to stroll along the boardwalk; it's flat the whole way and easy on the knees. 02 Zhumadian | Henan Between Chaya Mountain and Laole Mountain, I choose Chaya Mountain. The rocks have bizarre shapes, and the climb is a bit tough on the legs, but the views are worth the price of admission. ⏰ Enter the park before 8:00 AM. It's less crowded, the fog hasn't lifted yet, and weaving through the rock crevices feels like playing a real-life maze. 📍 Enter through the North Gate of Chaya Mountain. The loop takes about 3 hours. Wear non-slip shoes, as the steps get slippery when wet. Laole Mountain is better for the afternoon; the slopes are gentle, making it suitable for children. ⚠️ Don't plan both mountains for the same day, or your legs will give out. 🍜 In Zhumadian city center, have some spicy soup (hulatang) with pan-fried buns—you can get full for 10 yuan. September and October offer crisp autumn weather, making it the most comfortable window for hiking. 03 Yushu | Qinghai Hoh Xil and the Three-River-Source region aren't typical tourist spots; they're places to experience vast emptiness. ⏰ In September and October, the meadows turn yellow and Tibetan antelopes become active. Observe from a distance and don't chase them. 📍 Depart from Yushu city center and take G214. Stop at the observation decks along the way, but don't drive off-road, as the ecosystem is fragile. ⚠️ The altitude is high, so get a good night's sleep beforehand and take Rhodiola rosea in advance. This isn't suitable for very young children or seniors with heart or lung conditions. 🚄 It's recommended to fly into Yushu Batang Airport and spend a day acclimating after arrival. 🍜 Try the yak yogurt in the city center with some white sugar sprinkled on top—it's tart enough to wake you up. It may snow after October, so check road conditions before you set off. 04 Shantou | Guangdong Nan'ao Island: visiting in September or October is perfect for avoiding the summer crowds and the tail end of typhoon season. ⏰ Arrive at Qing'ao Bay by 5:30 PM, when the sunset turns the sea orange. 📍 Renting an electric scooter on the island loop road is the best way to get around. It costs a few dozen yuan a day and is more flexible than driving. ⚠️ The bridge to the island gets frustratingly congested on holidays, so go on a weekday. 🍜 Head back to the city center for beef hot pot. Order a plate of "borin" (neck meat) and "diaolong" (ribeye), and don't make the satay sauce too salty. Accommodation prices on the island drop in September, making sea-view rooms a great value. It's perfect for couples and friends, with a slow pace and no need to fight for photo spots. 05 Guangyuan | Sichuan Jianmen Pass: you only truly understand the phrase "the Shu roads are difficult" when you stand beneath the pass gate. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7:30 AM to avoid tour groups. 📍 Enter through the North Gate and exit through the South Gate. The boardwalk and pass gate tour takes about 4 hours. ⚠️ If you're afraid of heights, don't take the Bird Path; it's narrow and suspended, and you'll definitely get weak in the knees. 🍜 Have a tofu feast at the foot of the mountain. There are dozens of ways to prepare Jianmen tofu; just order 3 dishes to try. The mountains are cool in September and October, making it perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Seniors can take the cable car up and down to save energy, though it's a bit less authentic. Please check official daily announcements for admission and opening requirements. 06 Zunyi | Guizhou Chishui Danxia: the waterfalls still have plenty of water in October, and the red rocks against the green trees look like an oil painting. ⏰ Go the day after it rains for the most spectacular waterfall views. 📍 Choose either Foguangyan or Sidonggou for an in-depth visit; don't try to do too much. ⚠️ The scenic areas are far apart, so drive yourself or hire a car—public transport is too slow. 🍜 In Chishui city center, try the braised bamboo shoots with cured meat—it's savory and goes great with rice. Temperatures are around 20°C in September and October, so you won't get sweaty while walking. It's great for families, as the steps aren't too steep and there's plenty of room for kids to run around. Stay in the city center, as options near the scenic area are pricey and limited. 07 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Xibaipo and Zhaozhou Bridge can be combined into one day, but you'll need to pace yourself. ⏰ Go to Zhaozhou Bridge in the morning when the light is good and the river under the bridge is calm. 📍 The Zhaozhou Bridge scenic area isn't large; 1 hour is enough. ⚠️ Some exhibition halls are closed on Mondays, so check before you go to avoid a wasted trip. Head to Xibaipo in the afternoon; the mountain roads are winding, so drive slowly. 🍜 Back in Shijiazhuang city center, try the ganglu shaobing (clay oven rolls) with meat—they're so crispy they crumble. Autumn colors are just starting in September and October, making it a great trip to take with your parents—it's a short distance and not tiring. Please check official daily announcements for ticket prices and reservation rules. 08 Benxi | Liaoning Autumn in Benxi is the most unreasonably beautiful in Northeast China. ⏰ From early to mid-October, the maple leaves at Guanmenshan are in full red. Go a week early and they're green; go a week late and they're bare. 📍 Take the Maple King trail at Guanmenshan, take a boat ride in the Water Cave to see stalactites, and climb Wunü Mountain in Huanren for views of the river. ⚠️ Don't cram all 3 spots into 1 day; spend half a day each at the Water Cave and Guanmenshan, and a full day at Wunü Mountain. 🍜 In Benxi city center, have some Xiaoshi lamb soup with steamed rolls—it'll warm you right down to your toes. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Shenyang to Benxi (30 mins), then hire a car to get to the scenic areas. It's great for the whole family; seniors can walk the flat paths at the Water Cave, while younger people can climb Wunü Mountain. Book accommodation in advance, as prices rise quickly during the red leaf season. These 8 places are perfect for a September or October trip. Which one do you want to visit first? I'm betting on Benxi and Shantou—one for the leaves, one for the sea—you can't go wrong with either.

For off-peak National Day travel, these 8️⃣ places have fewer crowds and a better experience 1️⃣ Bijie | Guizhou If you go to Zhijin Cave during National Day, avoid the 10 AM tour groups. ⏰ Enter the cave at 8:30 AM. The lights will have just been turned on, the mist on the stalagmites hasn't cleared, and the whole passage feels like a private booking. The cave temperature is about 16°C, so a light jacket is just right. It takes about 2 hours to walk the whole route. 📍 From the Zhijin Cave exit, walk 500 meters to the right and you'll find a stall selling buckwheat jelly with a sour-spicy flavor, CNY 8 a bowl, about half the price inside the park. In the afternoon, go to the Baili Rhododendron Scenic Area. Don't be fooled by the name — rhododendrons don't bloom in September and October, but the autumn colors along the ridge and the sea of clouds are even more attractive. ⚠️ The Baili Rhododendron Scenic Area is very large. Driving yourself is the easiest option because bus service is limited. If you only visit Pudi and Jinpo, you can finish before 3 PM. For accommodation, choose Qianxi county town — you can get a clean standard double for around CNY 150, which is cheaper than staying at the park entrance. 2️⃣ Chuxiong | Yunnan Between Yuanmou Earth Forest and Wumao Earth Forest, I chose Wumao. Yuanmou has been developed earlier and has more boardwalks, but it also attracts crowds. Wumao is wilder; the earth pillars have wind-eroded folds like old tree bark. After 4:30 PM the light hits at an angle, so you can shoot portraits without a filter. 📍 From the Wumao Earth Forest entrance, walk about 15 minutes to find a cluster of unfenced earth pillars; the ground is fine sand, so wear sneakers, not sandals. A taxi from Yuanmou county town costs about CNY 40; carpooling is cheaper. Remember to get the driver's number because it's hard to get a ride back. In the evening back in Chuxiong city, stroll around Yiren Ancient Town, but don't eat mushroom hot pot inside — it's expensive and so-so. 🍜 Go to a street stall on the outskirts of the old town and order roast suckling pig with dipping sauce; CNY 50 per person is a filling meal. ⚠️ In October Chuxiong has big temperature differences between day and night — wear short sleeves by day and bring a softshell jacket at night. 3️⃣ Weinan | Shaanxi Huashan limits visitors during National Day and cable car queues can be brutal. My take: either hike at night or start the ascent after 3 PM. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 3 PM. The queue for the West Peak cable car is about half as long, so you can catch the sunset after arriving. Stay overnight at the summit and leisurely descend after watching sunrise the next day. 📍 For a night climb, take the Yuquan Temple route. Start at 10 PM and arrive at the East Peak around 4 AM. Rent a military coat for CNY 50 instead of packing a bulky jacket — less to carry. Bring enough water — bottled water on the mountain is CNY 10 per bottle and instant noodles cost CNY 25. ⚠️ Book Huashan entrance and cable car tickets in advance through official channels; they may not be available on site. You can buy gloves and a headlamp at the base for CNY 10 a set. After descending, go to Huayin city for a bowl of dadao noodles — the old shop near Huashan North Station serves noodles as wide as a belt with fragrant chili oil. 4️⃣ Shaoguan | Guangdong Danxia Mountain isn't too crowded during National Day, but don't just visit Changlao Peak. ⏰ Enter from Yangyuan Mountain before 7 AM, walk from Tongtai Bridge to Ximei Village — it's almost empty and the red conglomerate shines in the morning light. The whole route takes about 3 hours. The steps are steep, so bring trekking poles if you have bad knees. 📍 Next to Xianglong Lake pier there's a trail that takes 10 minutes to Yin Yuan Stone viewing platform — the angle is better than the main path and you won't need to squeeze with others. ⚠️ Danxia Mountain tickets are valid for 48 hours, but cable car and boat rides are charged separately — don't buy duplicates. In the afternoon go to Shaoguan city. On Fengdu Road pedestrian street there's a stall selling Zhangshi yellow tofu, pan-fried crispy outside and soft inside, CNY 5 per skewer. Stay in Zhenjiang District — budget hotels are about CNY 120, and a taxi to the high-speed rail station is CNY 20. Northern Guangdong can be cool at night in October, so bring a light windbreaker. 5️⃣ Shigatse | Tibet Everest base camp in October is cold but visibility is high. ⏰ Depart Shigatse city at 8 AM via G318 and arrive at Rongbuk Monastery around 2 PM, then switch to the environmental vehicle into base camp. Bring an oxygen canister — don't try to tough it out; 5,200 m altitude is serious. 📍 Tashilhunpo Monastery has the best light after 3 PM; the golden roofs gleam, and the local women walking the kora move slowly — just follow their pace. ⚠️ Take off your hat before entering the temple, don't step on thresholds, and no photography inside the halls. For accommodation, choose Shigatse city — oxygen-supplied hotels cost around CNY 300 and are more comfortable than tents at base camp. 🍜 At night have a bowl of Tibetan noodles with sweet tea to warm your stomach. Take the high-speed train from Lhasa to Shigatse in about 2 hours; a taxi from the station to the city is about CNY 10. Nights at Everest are below freezing in October — a down jacket is a must. 6️⃣ Xilin Gol | Inner Mongolia On the Ulagai grassland, September and October are haying season — hay bales lie scattered along the road like a ground full of copper coins. ⏰ After 4 PM drive along the grassland road and shoot hay bales against the backlight — shadows lengthen. Don't step on the hay bales; herders will collect them to feed cattle. 📍 The open fields outside Bulinquan Scenic Area are more beautiful than inside. No ticket required — park by the road and walk in. ⚠️ There's no signal on the grassland. Download offline maps in advance and fill up the gas tank — gas stations are far apart. At night stay at a homestay in the Ulagai management area for about CNY 150, where you can try shoubarou (hand-grabbed mutton). 🍜 Order a small portion — the meat is substantial and milk tea helps cut the richness. Nights on the grassland drop below freezing in October, so bring a sleeping bag liner. It's about a 4-hour drive from Xilinhot. There's no direct train; self-driving or chartering a car is easiest. 7️⃣ Lanzhou | Gansu Don't just use Lanzhou as a transfer city for Northwest China. ⏰ Go to Baita Hill Park at 7 AM. There's no ticket, and from the top you can see the Yellow River running through the city — it's most photogenic when the morning mist hasn't lifted. Walk down via Zhongshan Bridge and take a photo at the bridgehead to prove you were there. 📍 Book the provincial museum three days in advance — National Day tickets are tight. If you can't get one, visit Lanzhou City Museum; it's less crowded and has a replica of the bronze galloping horse. ⚠️ The provincial museum is closed on Mondays — don't make a wasted trip. At noon have beef noodle soup. Don't go to the trendy spots — pick any place where locals are lining up. It's CNY 8 a bowl and add chili oil yourself. In the afternoon go to the Yellow River and drink San Paotai tea — CNY 20 a cup, refillable, sit there all afternoon. Stay near Xiguan Cross; budget hotels are about CNY 150 and it's a 10-minute walk to Zhengning Road night market. 8️⃣ Shijiazhuang | Hebei You can visit Xibaipo and Zhaozhou Bridge in one day, but the order matters. ⏰ Go to Zhaozhou Bridge first thing in the morning — enter right when it opens at 8 AM. The bridge deck will be empty and you can photograph the full open arch. Tickets cost CNY 40 and an hour is enough. 📍 It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Zhaozhou Bridge to Xibaipo; arrive around noon, eat first, then tour. ⚠️ Some exhibits at Xibaipo stop admitting visitors at 4 PM, so don't leave it too late. Xibaipo is free, but you must reserve via the official WeChat account in advance and enter with an ID card. If you're with elderly people, the site offers a shuttle for CNY 20 round trip. To return to Shijiazhuang city, take the Xibaipo expressway; a taxi from Shijiazhuang station to the city is about CNY 20. 🍜 For dinner try ganglu baked flatbread with he'er noodles, with the flatbread stuffed with meat — CNY 10 will fill you up. These 8 places — pick 2 or 3 to combine during National Day for a more comfortable trip than squeezing into the popular cities. Which one do you most want to visit? Or if you have other off-the-beaten-path spots, drop them in the comments.

🗺️Itinerary: · Ziyun Mountain Scenic Area consists of four main zones: the Pilgrimage Culture Zone, the Folk Culture Zone, the Wellness Culture Zone, and the Water Recreation Zone. The Pilgrimage Culture Zone is the core area. · You can enter from the foot of Ziyun Mountain and follow the wooden boardwalk to hike up and visit each zone in sequence. · The main route is: Ziyun Temple (must-visit) → Stone Archway (must-visit) → Buddha Worship Terrace → Buddha Viewing Terrace → Ziyun Temple Back Mountain Viewing Platform (excellent spot for sunrise). · It is recommended to enter the scenic area before 8:00 AM and finish visiting the core attractions before 10:00 AM to avoid peak crowds. 🏞️Must-visit attractions: · The Stone Archway is the landmark of Ziyun Mountain Scenic Area. Built during the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty, it remains well-preserved today. · The Stone Archway is made of bluestone, features a three-gate, four-pillar, seven-story structure, and boasts exquisite carving craftsmanship. It is a key cultural relic protection unit in Henan Province. · You can walk there from the parking lot at the foot of the mountain, and the shaded path along the way is quite pleasant. 🧳Preparation: · Driving is recommended, as the scenic area parking lot is small. · Visiting Ziyun Mountain involves hiking, so wear comfortable sports shoes. · Bring plenty of water and snacks. 💡Travel tips: · Ziyun Mountain Scenic Area is suitable for both hiking enthusiasts and photography lovers. · In the early morning, Ziyun Mountain is shrouded in mist, making the scenery particularly spectacular. · The best time for viewing is at sunrise.

At 2,281 meters, the main peak of Tuoliang is a high point in the middle section of the Taihang Mountains. It is located in the northwest of Pingshan County, Shijiazhuang, bordering Wutai, Shanxi. Once you cross the ridge, you are in Wutai County. When the weather is good, you can see far across the subalpine meadow on the ridge. When the wind blows, waves of grass roll into the distance. ⛰ Tuoliang gets its name from its main peak, which looks like a resting camel from a distance. This area has dense forests and lush vegetation. It is a famous summer retreat, and in autumn, as the temperature difference increases, the leaves turn from green to yellow and red, layering over the landscape. It is about 140 kilometers from the city center. You can drive via the expressway followed by a stretch of national highway, or take a direct shuttle bus. It is perfect for a two-day weekend trip. For autumn foliage, mid-October to early November is usually the most reliable time to see colors along the mountain roads. If you are coming to escape the heat, choose July or August. You will need a blanket at night on the mountain, but it is not stuffy during the day. Here is an important tip: there is a significant temperature difference between the mountain and the base. If you are going in autumn, bring a thick jacket, as the wind is sharp in the early morning. I usually leave early, park at Qiandadi Village at the foot of the mountain, and take the shuttle bus up. 🚗 There are two ways up the mountain. If you want to save time, take the cable car. If you are up for a hike, take the stairs. The path is densely forested, and in autumn, the red and yellow leaves make the walk enjoyable. 🥾 Above the halfway point, the wind gets stronger and the clouds move quickly. Whether you will see a sea of clouds is a matter of luck. Locals say there is a better chance of seeing them on a clear morning after rain. If you want to catch it, stay at the foot of the mountain the night before and head up before dawn. The route is roughly divided into several sections: after entering the gate, take the shuttle bus to the lower cable car station. If you prefer to walk, take the stairs through the forest. There is a platform halfway up where you can rest and look at the distant mountains. Further up is an open meadow. Once you reach the top, the view opens up. The stairs are well-maintained and not dangerous, just long, so take your time. I stopped and started, taking over two hours one way, and rested twice at the platform. If you are bringing children, slow down the pace even more. The meadow at the top is truly expansive. There are many wildflowers in June and July, and by September and October, the grass turns from green to yellow, with layers of mountains in the distance. 📸 When taking photos, look down too; there are scattered wildflowers on the grassy slopes that rustle in the wind. It is windy at the top, so keep your hat on tight. Don't rush off when you come down. There are farmhouses at the foot of the mountain serving home-style dishes like stewed chicken with mushrooms, corn cakes, wild mountain vegetables, and shredded potatoes. 🍜 It gets crowded at meal times, so eat early or avoid the rush. It is quite comfortable to sit in the courtyard and soak up the sun after a meal. The portions are generous—three dishes are enough for four people—and the prices are reasonable. For accommodation, farmhouses at the foot of the mountain are close to the ticket gate, making it convenient for an early start. It is quiet at night, though you might have to wait a bit for hot water. If you prefer more comfort, head back to the county town where there are more hotel options. Rooms fill up quickly during peak seasons and holidays, so book in advance. 🏠 As for gear, a pair of shoes with good grip is more important than anything else, as your feet will get tired after walking on rocks and stairs for a long time. Add jackets, hats, and gloves according to the season. Bring a power bank, as the signal is weak in the mountains and your phone battery will drain quickly. Bring enough water for everyone; you cannot buy cold water at the top. If you plan to wait for the sunrise and sea of clouds, do not forget a headlamp or flashlight, as the stairs are dark before dawn. Last time, I tried to save trouble and wore thin-soled shoes; my feet were swollen after the hike, so I switched to thick-soled ones when I got back. A few more reminders: there are not many supply points on the mountain, so bring enough water and snacks. Cell signal is spotty, so make important arrangements in advance. Do not run or play on steep slopes. The cable car will have queues during peak times, so get up early if you can. It is a climb of over 1,000 meters, so rest if you are tired and do not push yourself too hard. 🌫 There are other places to visit nearby, but your legs will be sore after a day of hiking, and you will likely just want to take it easy the next day, so do not pack your itinerary too tightly. Ticket prices and opening hours may change occasionally, so check recent announcements before you leave and look at the daily rates at the ticket office when you arrive. In autumn, Tuoliang's grass turns yellow, the wind gets cool, and there are not many people on the mountain trails. Walk to the high platform in the meadow, sit down to catch your breath, and watch the clouds slowly roll in from the opposite mountain peak. 🍂

What's the worst part about traveling during the National Day holiday? It's not the cost; it's paying to suffer. Waiting in line for two hours in popular cities just to take photos for five minutes, then wanting to lie in bed for three days when you get back. I've looked through my travel records from the past few National Day holidays and picked out 6 places where you can actually breathe. I can't guarantee they'll be completely empty, but at least you won't be rubbing shoulders with crowds. 1️⃣ Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai It's already a bit cold in Golog during the National Day holiday, but it's often sunny with good visibility. The First Bend of the Yellow River makes a huge turn between Maqu and Zoige. At sunset, the whole river looks like it's on fire. ⏰ Arrive at the viewing platform at 4:30 PM. When the sun hits the ridgeline, the light and shadows are at their best. It's about a six-hour drive from Xining; the road conditions are decent, but the altitude gain is rapid. 📍 There's a boardwalk at the First Bend viewing platform—walk slowly, don't run. Altitude sickness doesn't care about your fitness level; it cares about your current state. 🍜 Grab a bowl of yak yogurt with tsampa on the road; it's filling and warms your hands. Book your accommodation in the county seat or at a guesthouse along the way in advance for the holiday; if you wait until the day of, prices are likely to be jacked up. ⚠️ At altitudes above 3,500 meters, seniors and those with heart or lung issues should be cautious—don't push yourself. 2️⃣ Jingdezhen | Jiangxi Jingdezhen isn't empty during the National Day holiday, but the Taoxichuan Ceramic Art Avenue area only gets busy after 7:00 PM, so it's actually quiet during the day. 📍 The weekend market at Taoxichuan features many local students and independent studios, and prices are more reasonable than in the tourist shops. The Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Museum is best visited in the morning to watch masters throwing clay and painting blue-and-white porcelain. ⏰ Enter the park before 9:30 AM, before the tour groups arrive, so you can look around in peace for half an hour. ⚠️ Book experience classes in advance; there are basically no spots if you just show up. 🚄 It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from Jingdezhen North Station to Taoxichuan. For food, try cold noodles and jiaozi ba for breakfast, and fried dough sticks wrapped in sticky rice cakes for afternoon tea. It's great for couples and people who like hands-on activities; a day and a half is enough if you're just sightseeing. 3️⃣ Chifeng | Inner Mongolia The Hashhatu Stone Forest Scenic Area is in Hexigten Banner. The grass has already turned yellow by the National Day holiday, but the stones look especially three-dimensional in the slanting sunlight. 📍 The stone forest is divided into several areas. The south route is easy to walk, while the north route requires climbing—choose the south route if you're with seniors. ⏰ The light is cooler before 10:00 AM, which is good for capturing the layers of the stones. After 4:00 PM, the backlight is perfect for silhouettes. It's windy, so don't skimp on hats and scarves. 🍜 In Chifeng city, try the "duijia" (a crispy pastry filled with smoked meat)—eat it while it's hot. 🚄 It's about a three-hour drive from Chifeng Station to the stone forest; I recommend chartering a car or driving yourself, as you can't really rely on public transport. ⚠️ There are few supply points in the scenic area, so bring enough water and dry food. It's suitable for people who like a wilderness feel; if traveling with kids, they need to be able to walk. 4️⃣ Hefei | Anhui Sanhe Ancient Town is about an hour's drive from downtown Hefei, and the crowds during the National Day holiday are significantly smaller than at Hongcun or Xidi. 📍 The main street of the ancient town is very commercialized; turn into the narrow alleys and the old west street to see where the locals actually live. ⏰ Arrive before 8:00 AM to photograph the stone bridges and morning mist without the crowds. At noon, find a small restaurant by the river and order Sanhe rice dumplings and local dishes. 🍜 The rice dumplings are only sold until 10:00 AM; they close up shop after that. ⚠️ Some "free guides" in the ancient town will eventually take you into a shop—just politely decline. 🚄 There are direct buses from Hefei South Station to Sanhe, taking about an hour and a half. It's suitable for a half-day trip with parents; it's not tiring, and you can sit down for tea after walking a few steps. 5️⃣ Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hunan The Fenghuang Ancient Town scenic area is packed during the National Day holiday, but the Tuojiang River at 7:00 AM is a different world. 📍 The Jumping Rocks and the North Gate Wharf are best for photographing the stilted buildings while the morning mist is still there. ⚠️ If people by the river try to solicit you for photos, ask about the price before you press the shutter. Dehang Grand Canyon and Aizhai are best visited on the same day. Looking at the canyon from under the Aizhai Bridge, the wind blows through the bridge openings, and your legs might feel a bit weak if you stand there too long. ⏰ Enter the canyon after 3:00 PM when the light slants into the rock walls. The road in Shibadong Village is easy to walk, making it suitable for seniors. 🍜 Xiangxi cured meat and sour fish are great, whether you eat them in Jishou or Fenghuang. 🚄 Get off at Fenghuang Ancient Town Station; it's about a 15-minute taxi ride to the ancient town. It's suitable for people who want to see mountains, water, and villages all at once, but don't be too greedy—two days is just right. 6️⃣ Yangjiang | Guangdong At the Hailing Island Dajiao Bay Maritime Silk Road Scenic Area, you can still swim during the National Day holiday in Guangdong, but the beach gets hot on your feet in the afternoon. ⏰ From 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, or after 5:00 PM, the light is soft and there are fewer people. 📍 When entering through the main gate of Dajiao Bay, head left; it's less crowded than the right side. 🚄 It's about an hour's taxi ride from Yangjiang Station to Hailing Island; expect traffic jams during the holiday, so allow two hours. ⚠️ Ask for prices before ordering at seafood stalls, and keep an eye on the scale when they weigh your food. 🍜 Have "zhuchanglu" (rice noodle rolls) and seafood porridge for breakfast; buy seafood at the Zhapo market and find a restaurant to cook it for you—it's cheaper than ordering directly. It's suitable for people who want to splash in the water but don't want to fly to Hainan. If you have kids, keep a close eye on the waves; they can be quite strong here. 7️⃣ Putian | Fujian For the Meizhou Island Mazu Cultural Tourism Area, you need to take a ferry during the National Day holiday. The first boat is at 7:00 AM, and the last boat is at 5:00 PM. 📍 The view of the sea from the top of the Mazu Ancestral Temple is better than from the beach. ⏰ Go up to the Ancestral Temple after 4:00 PM; the tour groups have left, and you can walk around in peace. ⚠️ The battery-powered carts on the island have inconsistent pricing; clarify whether it's a one-way trip or a full tour before getting on. 🍜 Putian braised noodles and "qiangrou" (pork with starch) are more authentic in the city. 🚄 It's about an hour by bus from Putian Station to Wenjia Wharf. It's suitable for bringing elders; the pace is slow, and there aren't too many stairs. However, ferry tickets are tight during the National Day holiday, so book in advance through official channels—don't wait until you get to the wharf. 8️⃣ Shijiazhuang | Hebei Xibaipo and Zhaozhou Bridge are in Pingshan and Zhaoxian respectively, in opposite directions—don't plan them for the same day. 📍 Go to Zhaozhou Bridge in the morning; the light hits the bridge arch, and you can clearly see the stone joints from the Sui Dynasty. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM, and you'll have your pick of parking spots. Go to Xibaipo in the afternoon; the exhibition hall stops entry at 4:00 PM. ⚠️ It's closed on Mondays, so don't make the trip for nothing. 🚄 It's about an hour from Shijiazhuang Station to Zhaozhou Bridge and about an hour and a half to Xibaipo; I recommend splitting them over two days. 🍜 Eat donkey meat sandwiches in Zhaoxian and "ganglu" baked wheaten cakes in downtown Shijiazhuang. It's suitable for people interested in both ancient architecture and exhibition halls. If traveling with kids, Zhaozhou Bridge is more intuitive as they can touch the stones. When traveling during the National Day holiday, don't be greedy. Pick one direction and take it slow for two days; it's worth more than rushing to five attractions. Among these 6 places, Golog and Chifeng are the wildest, Jingdezhen and Xiangxi have the best food, and Hefei and Putian are the most hassle-free. Pick one, and save the rest for next time.

Don't want crowds during Mid-Autumn and National Day? These 8️⃣ zero-complaint small towns are personally tested and stress-free 01 Shijiazhuang | Hebei In short, Shijiazhuang is not a transit stop. It's worth staying a whole day. ⏰ In the morning, go to Zhaozhou Bridge first. Stand on the bridge and look at that Sui-dynasty curve—you'll understand what it means when a textbook doesn't tell you how pleasing it is. The Xiao River below opens up into a wide surface; the paths are completely flat, so it's easy for elders to walk and for strollers to pass. Leave the afternoon for Xibaipo. Mountain roads have many bends—if you're driving, don't rush through the night. 📍 Follow the signs to the old residences and exhibits in the scenic area. Two hours is enough to see them thoroughly. ⚠️ Many indoor venues are closed on Mondays. Check official notices before you go so you don't make a wasted trip. 🍜 Back in town, stop for a bowl of clay-oven shaobing with handmade noodles—make sure the shaobing is fresh from the oven; once cold it's hard enough to crack a walnut. Good for a relaxed stroll with parents, not for young people chasing trendy photo spots. 02 Tongren | Guizhou Fanjing Mountain is one of those places where you curse yourself for climbing it, and then miss it after you come down. ⏰ In peak season, be sure to be among the first into the park—arrive at the mountain gate before 7:00 AM, or cable car lines can eat up half your day. The steps to Hongyun Golden Summit are so narrow only one person can pass sideways; if you fear heights, a photo at Mushroom Rock is enough. 📍 Wanbaoyan viewing platform is the most reliable spot for the sea of clouds, and it's most likely right after the rain clears. Mountain weather changes as fast as flipping pages—pack a light down jacket and a raincoat. 🚄 There's a tourist shuttle from Tongren station to Jiangkou County. Don't trust touts at the foot of the mountain promising a skip-the-line channel. 🍜 After descending, try guoba fen and shefan—sour and spicy, they'll pull you back from exhaustion. For big holidays like Mid-Autumn and National Day, book reservation tickets 3 days in advance—if you're slow, you'll miss out. 03 Altay | Xinjiang Kanas and Koktokay—don't be greedy and try to do both in one day. ⏰ Stay inside the Kanas scenic area; the morning mist at Shengxian Bay is only visible at dawn. Save Koktokay for the afternoon—the birch forest along the Irtysh River flashes golden. 📍 The Hemu village viewing platform is a 20-minute climb; overlooking the wood cabins and cooking smoke is more real than any postcard. Northern Xinjiang can see snow as early as October—bring enough warm layers and don't gamble on the weather. 🍜 At the Burqin night market, grilled grayling is sold per fish—ask the price before ordering. For the Altay grassland cultural experience, visiting a herder's home for a bowl of milk tea is more authentic than watching performances. Suitable for experienced self-drivers, not for rushed group travelers. ⚠️ For border areas, carry your ID—there are many checkpoints. 04 Shuozhou | Shanxi Shahukou sounds fierce, but inside it's so quiet you only hear the wind. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the light slants across the city walls—photos need no filters. 📍 The stone slabs in the ancient castle are worn shiny. Wear sneakers; high heels will teach you a lesson. There are no over-commercialized shops here—bring some snacks and water. 🚄 About a 1-hour drive from Shuozhou city center. Bus service is limited; carpooling is recommended. 🍜 Back in town, have a bowl of Youyu mutton—clear broth and tender meat, served with yellow cake—very filling. Good for people who enjoy a sense of desolation and history. If you bring kids, tell them the stories of the Westward Passage in advance, or they'll just think it's "a pile of earthen walls." 05 Liuzhou | Guangxi Liuzhou is more than luosifen, but luosifen is worth a trip on its own. ⏰ In the morning, visit Longtan Park—free. Karst peaks reflect on the lake; locals practice tai chi and walk their birds, so the everyday atmosphere feels more authentic than tourist sites. 📍 Chengyang Eight Villages are in Dong country; the wind-and-rain bridge uses no nails and creaks when you walk on it. Rent a Dong costume for photos, and remember to haggle. 🍜 For luosifen, skip the long-line trendy shops—neighborhood spots have the real flavor; add duck feet and pig trotter. Walk along the Liu River at dusk; the music fountain starts at 8:00 PM, so claim your spot 20 minutes early. ⚠️ Night cruise tickets on the Liu River sell fast during holidays—book online in advance. Good for couples and foodies, not for those who dislike the smell of pickled bamboo shoots. 06 Jiuquan | Gansu Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake, the Mogao Caves, the Yadan, and Yumenguan—these four spots can fill two days. ⏰ Enter Mingsha Mountain after 5:00 PM so your feet won't burn. Climb the dune ridge to watch the sunset; when Crescent Lake lights up, it's worth the ticket price. Mogao Caves must be booked in advance. An A ticket covers eight caves; don't be late—late arrivals really aren't admitted. 📍 The Yadan "Western Fleet" formations are most spectacular at dusk, and the wind is strong enough to blow your hat away. 🍜 At the Dunhuang night market, apricot-skin drink and donkey meat yellow noodles revive you. The Yumenguan ruins are exposed—bring plenty of water; there's no shade. ⚠️ Mogao tickets sell out in seconds during Mid-Autumn and National Day—set an alarm to grab them. Suitable for those with good stamina and an interest in culture. 07 Shenyang | Liaoning Shenyang's autumn is as short as a weekend, so when the ginkgoes in Beiling Park turn yellow, the whole city heads there. ⏰ Mid October to early November is best—too early and they're green, too late and they're bare. 📍 Ancient pines line the park paths; rent a boat for a half-hour paddle—elders and kids will both be delighted. Shenyang Expo Park is great for families—the park is large; renting an electric cart saves your legs. Wugou Jingguang Reliquary Pagoda and Beita Falun Temple sit close together and are peaceful; the pagoda's brick carvings are worth a close look. 🍜 For lunch, find an old Siji pulled-noodle shop—chicken rack with Lao Xue; you'll understand what makes Shenyang people happy. 🚄 Metro line 2 goes directly to Beiling—don't drive; parking spaces are scarce. Suitable for a family outing, pace it your way. 08 Zaozhuang | Shandong Taierzhuang Ancient City is one of those places that looks ten times better at night than during the day. ⏰ Enter after 4:00 PM. Explore the daytime streets first, then wait for the lights to come on and watch the canal reflections break into a sheet of gold. 📍 At Fuxing Square pier, take a pole-boat. The boatwomen sing local tunes as you drift through bridge arches. ⚠️ Boat tickets have long queues on holidays—buy tickets before you wander. 🍜 For city specialties like vegetable pancakes and huanghua beef noodles, look for old shops deep in the alleys; streetfront places are pricier and average. There are folk performances during Mid-Autumn and National Day—check the daily notice for exact times. Best to stay overnight—the night view is worth it. Don't do a day trip, you will regret it. If I had to pick from these eight, I'd bet on Zaozhuang and Tongren: one intoxicating by night, one that clears your lungs in the mountains. Which will you go to first?

Don't want to squeeze into crowds for Mid-Autumn and National Day? 8 underrated small cities to stay 3 days 01 Hezhou | Guangxi The waterfall clusters on Gupo Mountain are best after rain, when mist mixed with the scent of plants hits your face. ⏰ Leave the city before 8 AM to get into the mountain ahead of the tour buses. 📍 The steps from Xiangu Waterfall to Yulong Waterfall aren't steep, so you can stroll them with older companions. Don't just walk the main street of Huangyao ancient town. Turn toward Dailong Bridge and you'll see the bluestone slabs polished shiny. 🍜 Fermented bean paste noodles and beef ear pancakes are local favorites. The stall that steams them fresh midway down the main street is better than the packaged ones. ⚠️ The ancient town basically turns off the lights after 10 PM, so plan night shots before 9:30 PM. Sunrise at Dongtanling is hit or miss—sea of clouds doesn't appear every day. Staying in the ancient town is more convenient than the city, but dragging a suitcase over stone streets is noisy; a backpack is easier. 02 Lianyungang | Jiangsu Water Curtain Cave at Huaguo Mountain has the longest lines. I recommend taking the park shuttle to Yunu Peak first, then walking down—that saves half the effort. 🚄 From Lianyungang station take bus B1 to the mountain gate, and don't trust the touts outside offering "direct shuttles". Liandao is divided into Dasha Bay and Suma Bay. Dasha Bay is lively and crowded; Suma Bay has more reefs and clearer water. ⏰ Visit Suma Bay after 4 PM when the light hits the sea at an angle—no filter needed for photos. Don't eat seafood right at the scenic gate. Pick your seafood at Xugou Seafood Market and have a restaurant cook it for you so prices are transparent. ⚠️ Accommodation on Liandao doubles during Mid-Autumn and National Day, so book at least 2 weeks ahead to avoid sticker shock. 03 Hengyang | Hunan If you want an easier trip up Mount Heng, take the eco shuttle to Nantianmen, then walk half an hour to Zhuzong Peak. ⏰ To see the sunrise you have to stay on the mountain. Leave at 3:30 AM to secure a spot, and bring a flashlight and a jacket. The Nanyue temple is busy with worshippers, and there’s an order to entering—don’t just follow the crowd randomly. 📍 The tofu pudding and Guanyin bamboo shoots sold on the street outside the temple main gate are more satisfying than instant noodles on the summit. ⚠️ It's 7–8 °C colder on the mountain than at the base, so bring a light jacket even in summer. Take the high-speed train to Hengshan West station and then a taxi to the visitor center for about CNY 20—avoid unlicensed cars. 04 Yichun | Heilongjiang Tangwanghe's forest, sea, and strange stones are truly at their best in autumn. ⏰ Late September to early October is when birch and larch turn yellow together and the air smells of resin. The park is divided into south and north areas. The south has concentrated rock formations; the north has denser forest. 📍 The rock fissure at Yixiantian is narrow—backpackers should turn sideways, and bigger visitors may need to take off their packs. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Yichun city to Tangwanghe, but they run infrequently. Driving yourself gives more freedom. ⚠️ Signal in the forest can be unreliable. Download offline maps in advance and don't count on navigation being online. 05 Altay | Xinjiang Don’t cram Kanas and Koktokay into one day—they’re in opposite directions and travel eats up most of the day. Staying inside the Kanas scenic area is expensive but convenient; staying in Jiadenyu is cheaper but you may need to queue for shuttle buses. ⏰ North Xinjiang may already have snow during Mid-Autumn and National Day. The morning mist by Kanas Lake with snow is truly cold, and truly beautiful. 📍 The viewing platform to see the fish requires climbing more than 1,000 steps. If your knees are bad, take the shuttle to mid-mountain and hike from there. To understand the human side of the Altay grasslands, spend a night in Hemu Village—morning smoke rises from the wooden houses. ⚠️ Temperature swings are extreme, so pack both short sleeves and a down jacket. 06 Baicheng | Jilin The Da'an Nenjiang Bay tourist area has reed wetlands that stretch as far as the eye can see. ⏰ Go after 4 PM when the sunset turns the water orange and migratory birds head home. 📍 Rent a bike in the park and ride slowly—it’s easier than walking and freer than an electric trike. 🍜 Hand-pulled meat and pot tea in Baicheng city are more reliable than the park quick meals. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are still active in the wetlands during Mid-Autumn and National Day, so don't skimp on repellent. It's windy—pick a hat with a chin strap or you'll be chasing it. 07 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Xibaipo and Zhaozhou Bridge are in Pingshan and Zhaoxian respectively. Don't try to do both in one day. Visit Xibaipo in the morning when it's quieter and take your time in the exhibition halls. Go to Zhaozhou Bridge in the afternoon when the light hits the bridge surface and you can see the stone's texture. 📍 The antique-style street by the bridge is mostly for show; the bridge itself is the real highlight. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Shijiazhuang station to Zhaoxian, about 1 hour. ⚠️ Xibaipo is closed on Mondays. Check opening times before you go so you don’t make a wasted trip. 08 Tongren | Guizhou Fanjingshan tickets must be snapped up in advance, especially during Mid-Autumn and National Day—buying the same day is nearly impossible. ⏰ The first group enters the mountain at 7 AM, which keeps the steps around Red Cloud Golden Summit from getting crowded. Cable car lines are long. If you're fit you can climb the 10,000-step ladder, but know your knees. 📍 Everyone queues at the Mushroom Rock photo spot, but walking a few steps to the side gives a better angle. ⚠️ Weather on the summit can change in an instant—rain gear is more practical than an umbrella. After descending, have a bowl of mung bean noodles in Jiangkou town—it tastes much better than the CNY 30 boxed lunches on the mountain. Of these eight places, I most want to return to Hezhou and Yichun. One is full of mist, the other full of autumn color. Pick one, stay 3 days, and don't rush.

Some cities are best visited while you're still able, others are worth a special trip. Here are eight cities I recommend you visit while you still can. 01 Hangzhou | Zhejiang The best time to visit Hangzhou is by timing. ⏰ At 6:30 AM, West Lake is quiet. The Su Causeway is only occupied by leaf sweepers and elderly people walking their birds. The Broken Bridge is finally no longer a "human bridge." Once the tour groups arrive at 9 AM, you should leave. Don't try to see everything at Xixi Wetland. Enter from the Zhoujiacun entrance in the East Zone, take a rowboat to Shentankou, and an hour is just right. Any longer and you'll get tired of the scenery. ⚠️ Boat tickets and entrance tickets are separate. Book in advance on the official WeChat account. The queues on-site will leave you sunburnt. The China Umbrella Museum is west of Gongchen Bridge. It's free, but closed on Mondays. The Yuhang oil-paper umbrella inside looks like a cloud when opened. After visiting, stroll along Xiaohezhijie Street; the old Hangzhou atmosphere is still there. Prince Bay Park is a sea of ​​tulips in March, but it's also incredibly crowded. My strategy is to spend half an hour at the flower show, and the rest of the time relaxing at the nearby Yuhu Bay – quieter and less crowded, more like Hangzhou. 02 Changji | Xinjiang Don't just think of Tianchi Lake in the Tianshan Mountains when you think of Changji. Tianchi Lake is indeed beautiful, but the light only softens after 4 PM, and photos taken in the morning with backlighting often appear hazy. The entrance fee plus the shuttle bus isn't cheap; whether it's worth it depends on how much you love the snow-capped mountains. Jiangbulak is my personal favorite. In July, the wheat fields stretch from the foot of the mountains to the horizon, resembling golden waves in the wind. Driving into the scenic area offers more freedom than taking the shuttle bus. ⚠️ Mountain weather is unpredictable; pack a light down jacket. Wucaiwan (Five-Colored Bay) is best visited in the evening. The sunset paints the Yardang landforms in shades of ochre, ginger, and gray-green, like a spilled palette of colors. 📍 Navigate to the vicinity of "Wucaiwan Ancient Sea Hot Spring". Don't detour recklessly; getting stuck in the Gobi Desert is no joke. The Tianshan Mountains themselves don't require deliberately seeking out tourist attractions. The pastures, yurts, and flocks of sheep leisurely crossing the road are scenery in themselves. 🍜 Enjoy milk tea with baursak from a local Kazakh villager by the roadside – savory, fragrant, and filling. 03 Yangzhou|Jiangsu The proper way to experience Yangzhou is through its unique local culture. ⏰ At 7 AM, venture into the old alleys and find a teahouse with a long queue of locals. Enjoy a morning tea until 9 AM, with dishes like three-ingredient buns, hot dried bean curd, and jadeite shumai. This is called "when in Rome, do as the Romans do." Don't squeeze into the Slender West Lake from the South Gate. 📍 Enter from the East or North Gate and walk in the opposite direction; there will be half the crowd. Wait for a painted boat to pass by before taking a picture at the Five Pavilion Bridge; otherwise, your photos will be full of backs of heads. ⚠️ Peak season tickets are expensive, buy online in advance. Choose only one: Ge Garden or He Garden. Ge Garden is for bamboo and the Four Seasons Rockery, while He Garden is for covered walkways and the Stone Retreat. My choice: if time is tight, go to Ge Garden; if you appreciate architectural details, go to He Garden. Visiting both will strain your legs. 🍜 Go to Dongguan Street in the evening, but don't eat on the main street. Turn into the adjacent Caiyi Street for dumplings, noodles, potstickers, and braised goose—the prices are reasonable. Yangzhou is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace; three places a day are enough. Rushing will waste your time. 04 Chizhou|Anhui Jiuhua Mountain is so famous that many people forget about Chizhou itself. ⏰ To get up the mountain, catch the first shuttle bus at 6:30 am. The mist hasn't cleared yet, and the temple bells echo through the pine forest—that's when you truly understand what "coolness" means. ⚠️ Accommodation on the mountain is expensive and damp. Unless you want to see the sunrise, stay in Ke Village at the foot of the mountain and climb up the mountain the next day. If you can't climb Tiantai Peak, take the cable car; don't push yourself, the steps are so steep you'll question your existence. The Rou Shen Bao Dian (Hall of the Corpse) and Bai Sui Gong (Palace of a Hundred-Year-Old) are the core attractions, but don't worship at every hall. Choose two or three to explore in peace. 📍 There's a shop selling Huangjing cakes in the old street near Huacheng Temple. Eat them while they're hot; they're sweet, chewy, and not greasy. Pingtian Lake in Chizhou city is also worth a ride. In the evening, the cycling path is less crowded, and the lake breeze dissipates the day's incense smoke. It's suitable for bringing parents; the pace is slow, there are steps to choose from, and you can rest whenever you're tired. 05 Hainan|Qinghai Note that this "Hainan" is in Qinghai, not that island. ⏰ July and August are the best time to visit. Rapeseed flowers bloom all around Qinghai Lake, and the wind on Riyue Mountain is still cool. Prayer flags flutter in the wind at the Riyue Mountain Pass. 📍 The boardwalk between the Riting and Yueting pavilions offers views of the winding road and distant snow-capped mountains. ⚠️ Altitude approximately 3500 meters. Don't run or jump; walk slowly. The Danxia landforms in Guide National Geological Park present a different kind of beauty, with red layers that look as if they've been burned. ⏰ The colors are most vibrant in the afternoon when the sun shines directly on the area. The colorful peaks of Ashigong are so photogenic that even a casual phone shot will turn out beautifully. 🍜 Enjoy a bowl of Ga Mianpian (a type of noodle dish) and a plate of hand-pulled mutton in Guide County to refresh yourself. This route is best enjoyed by car; public transportation is infrequent. If you hire a car, remember to negotiate the round-trip price in advance to avoid being overcharged halfway through. 06 Shijiazhuang|Hebei Shijiazhuang is often just a stopover, but Xibaipo and Zhaozhou Bridge are worth a dedicated day stop. The Xibaipo historical site is nestled in a mountain valley. ⏰ Go in the morning; the sunlight slants through the mud-brick houses, and it's so quiet you can hear your own footsteps. ⚠️ Free admission but reservations required; closed Mondays. The Zhaozhou Bridge is another story. Standing at the bridgehead and looking at that 1400-year-old arc, you'll realize the textbooks weren't lying. 📍 There's a statue of Li Chun on the bank of the Xiao River below the bridge; take a stroll there. ⏰ Go in the evening; the setting sun warms the stone railings, and the tourists have dispersed. 🍜 Back in the city, have a bowl of Anhui-style noodles—yes, Shijiazhuang's noodles are even more famous than those in Anhui. Add a braised egg; it's really spicy. This route is perfect for families. The names from history textbooks become the stones and mud walls before your eyes—more effective than lectures. Two stops in one day, not tiring. 07 Baicheng | Jilin Baicheng is the kind of place you could pass by a hundred times without stopping, but once you stop, you'll remember it. The Da'an Nenjiang Bay Tourist Area, ⏰ in July and August, the reeds are a vibrant green, and waterbirds flutter down like confetti scattered across the sky. 📍 Enter from the main gate and walk along the wooden boardwalk to the birdwatching platform. It takes about forty minutes; the path is flat, and even strollers can fit. ⚠️ Be aware of mosquitoes; long pants and mosquito repellent are essential. Don't try to brave the heat in shorts. 🍜 Enjoy a whole fish feast at a fish restaurant by the Nenjiang River. The bighead carp stewed with tofu has a milky white broth. Prices are calculated by weight, so ask before ordering. There are no trendy photo spots or long queues at restaurants here. It's perfect for those seeking tranquility. Bring a book, sit by the river for an afternoon, and let the wind rustle the reeds—more effective than any white noise. 08 Zhangzhou | Fujian The cobblestone streets of Yunshuiyao Ancient Town are worn smooth and shiny. 📍 Arrive before 8 AM; tour groups haven't arrived yet. Only an old woman washing vegetables and a dog seemingly lost in thought are by the stream. ⚠️ The ancient town itself is free, but the Tulou (earthen buildings) require a separate ticket; a combined ticket is available upon request. In the Nanjing Tulou, the "Four Dishes and One Soup" viewing platform in Tianluokeng is a must-see. ⏰ After 4 PM, the sunlight shining on the earthen walls is as warm as honey. Yuchang Building, leaning precariously for seven hundred years, has stood firm. Looking up at the pillars inside, you'll feel a pang of sympathy for its resilience. The Coastal Volcanic National Geological Park offers a completely different experience. 📍 The columnar jointing of basalt on Xiangshan Peninsula looks like someone bundled stone pillars together and stuck them into the sea. ⏰ Go at low tide to walk onto the sea-eroded platform and see small crabs in the tidal pool. 🍜 In Zhangzhou's ancient city, four-fruit soup with mochi—five yuan's worth of happiness. For pot-side paste (a type of rice noodle soup), get there early, they close up shop when it's sold out. This route is best suited for driving; the three points are spread out, and public transport is a hassle. These eight places—some rely on scenery, some on taste, and some on that inexplicable slow pace. Don't wait until "later," because later often comes too late. Pick two or three and set off next month. Which one do you most want to go to, or which one have you visited and want to share your thoughts in the comments?

Where to go during the 8-day Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday? These 5 destinations are less crowded and offer a more enjoyable experience. 01 Wuhan | Hubei To put it simply, Wuhan is best visited during the first three days of the holiday, when you're most energetic. For Yellow Crane Tower Park, I recommend entering as early as 8 AM when it opens. ⏰ At that time, the main building hasn't been overrun by tour groups, and you can clearly see the railway bridge of the Yangtze River Bridge from the fifth-floor corridor. Book tickets in advance through official channels; queuing at the ticket window can take up to 40 minutes. Don't expect to see East Lake in one trip; it's much larger than you think. Rent a shared bike and ride from Tingtao Scenic Area to the North Gate of Moshan Mountain; it takes about 40 minutes, with the lake breeze constantly blowing in your face. 📍 The metasequoia forest on Luoyan Island is just beginning to turn yellow in October, making it suitable for a leisurely walk with elderly people; the slope is gentle. Songyang Temple is in Huangpi District, and it's so quiet you might doubt your navigation. It can be combined with the Mulan Cultural and Ecological Tourism Area into a day trip: visit the ancient temple in the morning and explore the mountains in the afternoon. ⚠️ It gets dark quickly in the mountains, so you must head towards the exit before 4 PM, otherwise the winding mountain roads have no streetlights. The Mulan Scenic Area in Huangpi is suitable for families; the grassy slopes are large, allowing children to run freely. For accommodation, I prefer staying near Jianghan Road in Hankou. Enjoy a bowl of hot dry noodles with egg wine in the evening, and it's easy to cross the river by subway the next day. During the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, some sections of the East Lake Greenway will have traffic restrictions, so check the official announcements before you go. 02 Alashan | Inner Mongolia The poplar forests in Ejina only turn yellow for about twenty days a year, and the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays fall right at this window. ⏰ The best light is between 7 AM and 9 AM, when the reflection on the water at Erdaoqiao Bridge is most stable. Going later will result in a lot of tripods being used. The entrance fee plus the shuttle bus is a considerable expense; the specific price depends on the official announcement on the day. I advise you not to just take a bus into the Badain Jaran Desert for a quick tour. The truly breathtaking view is from the top of Bilutu Sand Dunes; the sheer cliff lines are impossible to capture in photos. 📍 The desert entrance is towards Yabulai. Hiring a car is more reliable than driving yourself; regular sedans can't get in. Accommodation is the biggest pitfall here. Prices in Ejin Banner town can triple during the National Day holiday. ⚠️ Booking two months in advance isn't early enough. If you can't book, consider staying in guesthouses on the outskirts of Dalaihob town. Families with young children shouldn't attempt desert camping; the temperature difference at night can reach 15 degrees Celsius. As for food, try the hand-pulled mutton and camel meat pies in town, but don't expect anything fancy. 🚄 It takes about six hours by bus from Yinchuan, and even faster from Jiuquan. This place is suitable for those who can tolerate a bumpy ride and want to see spectacular scenery; it's not suitable for vacationers seeking comfort. 03 Shijiazhuang|Hebei Shijiazhuang is often used as a transit point, but it's actually worth two days of exploring on its own. I recommend visiting the Zhaozhou Bridge after 4 PM. ⏰ The setting sun casts its rays on the stone arches, making the bridge's curves particularly clear. The entrance fee is inexpensive, and an hour is sufficient to explore. Locals sell pear syrup candy nearby. Xibaipo is located in Pingshan County, about an hour and a half drive from the city center. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. The exhibits mainly consist of text and artifacts. If you're bringing children, do some research beforehand to avoid rushing through. Zhengding Ancient City is my personal favorite. The reclining Guanyin statue at Longxing Temple is unforgettable. 📍 You can reach it by subway and bus from Shijiazhuang Station. The ancient city wall is perfect for a stroll after it's lit up at night. For food, try the Zhengding Eight Bowls and Beng Gan (a type of liver soup), but don't order too much as the portions are generous. For transportation, don't confuse Shijiazhuang Station with Zhengding Airport Station. A two-day, one-night itinerary is perfect: day one at Zhaozhou Bridge and Zhengding, day two at Xibaipo and back. Suitable for a short weekend trip, or a leisurely stroll with parents. 04 Urumqi | Xinjiang Urumqi deserves a full day; don't just treat it as a stopover on your way to Tianchi (Heavenly Lake). The International Grand Bazaar opens after 10 AM. 📍 The stalls selling dried fruit and carpets at the end of the pedestrian street offer better deals, while the souvenir shops at the entrance are overpriced. ⚠️ Before buying, ask whether it's priced by kilogram or pound. Hongguang Mountain is best visited in the evening; climbing to the top offers panoramic views of the city. ⏰ Arrive forty minutes before sunset, when the light transitions from golden to bluish-purple, providing excellent photo opportunities. The mountain isn't high, so even seniors can hike up slowly. Dabancheng is about 90 kilometers from the city center; the wind is strong enough to blow your hat away. The wind turbines against the backdrop of the Gobi Desert have a desolate yet beautiful charm. 🍜 On the way back, eat spicy chicken in Chaiwopu; it's a local favorite. For accommodation, I prefer staying near the South Gate or the Grand Bazaar, where there are plenty of places to eat in the evening. The Grand Bazaar gets very crowded during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, so keep an eye on your belongings. This place is suitable for first-time visitors to Xinjiang who want to experience the city's atmosphere first. 05 Baishan | Jilin Changbai Mountain is the most luck-dependent stop on this trip. Whether you can see Tianchi Lake depends entirely on the cloud cover that day. ⏰ I recommend taking the first bus up the mountain in the morning, before 10 am when the clouds haven't gathered yet. Tickets and bus tickets need to be booked in advance through official channels; specific rules are subject to the announcement on the day. Choose either the North Slope or the West Slope. The North Slope has more attractions, including waterfalls and hot springs, making it suitable for first-time visitors. The West Slope has more steps, suitable for those with good stamina who want to hike the alpine gardens. ⚠️ The temperature on the mountain is 10 degrees Celsius lower than at the foot of the mountain, so don't worry about the weight of your windproof jacket. For food, try the Korean cold noodles and barbecue in Erdaobaihe Town. 🍜 I don't recommend the dog meat restaurant in town that's been there for years. It's not a matter of taste, but many people can't accept it, so avoid it. It's about a two-hour drive from Baishan city to Changbai Mountain Scenic Area; you can hire a car or share a ride. This place is suitable for those willing to get up early and accept unpredictable weather. Don't be discouraged if you don't see Tianchi Lake; the forest and hot springs themselves are worth the price. 06 Baoshan | Yunnan Tengchong is the most worthwhile place to stop in Baoshan; I recommend leaving three days. I suggest staying overnight in Heshun Ancient Town. ⏰ In the early morning, the Washing Pavilion and the riverbank are almost deserted; that tranquility only exists before the daytime influx of tourists. The ancient town ticket includes several ancestral halls, so take your time exploring. The Volcanic Hot Spring Tourist Area is best visited in the afternoon. The boiling spring at the Big Boiling Pot looks scary, so don't get too close. ⚠️ Remember to bring your own swimsuit when soaking in the hot springs; buying one inside the scenic area is ridiculously expensive. You can paddle on grass rafts at Beihai Wetland, which is suitable for families with children. Yunfeng Mountain is a bit off the beaten path. The mountain road is steep, and it takes about 50 minutes to drive from Tengchong city. Those with average stamina can turn back halfway up; the scenery is already quite impressive. In autumn, the mountain colors begin to warm up, making it perfect for photography. For food, I recommend Da Jiu Jia (a local specialty) and Xi Dou Fen (a type of rice noodle soup), both available at breakfast stalls. Tengchong has an airport; a flight from Kunming takes about an hour, which is more convenient than taking a bus. Accommodation in Heshun Ancient Town is in high demand during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, so book in advance. 07 Zhangye|Gansu Choose the right time to visit the Rainbow Mountains. ⏰ Enter after 5:30 PM when the oblique sunlight illuminates the color bands most clearly; at midday, it appears as a grayish-red. There are four viewing platforms in the scenic area; take the shuttle bus and visit them in order, don't spend too much time on the first platform. Mati Temple is in Sunan County, about an hour's drive from the city. The Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes require climbing narrow stairs; ⚠️ those with a fear of heights or mobility issues can simply admire it from the outside. The murals in the temple are well-preserved; avoid using flash photography. Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple is located in the city center. The reclining Buddha inside is very long, and going inside will bring a sense of tranquility. 📍 It's a ten-minute walk from the Bell and Drum Tower. Along the way, you can visit Ganzhou Market and try a bowl of "cuo yu mian" (a type of noodle dish). Liqian Ancient City is further from the city center, and its exhibits are more focused on exhibitions; whether you go depends on your schedule. A two-day, one-night itinerary is recommended: Day 1: Sunset at Danxia Landform; Day 2: Giant Buddha Temple and Mati Temple. Suitable for self-driving or hiring a car. 08 Daxinganling | Heilongjiang Beiji Village is the northernmost stop on this trip. Visiting during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays allows you to catch the tail end of autumn colors. ⏰ From late September to early October, the birch forests are a vibrant yellow; any later and the leaves will have fallen. The northernmost post office in the village allows you to send postcards, adding a touch of ceremony. The Greater Khingan Mountains forest route is perfect for a self-driving trip. 📍 It's about 80 kilometers from Mohe to Beiji Village, and the road conditions are good. You can stop and drive along the way, and even find pine cones in the forest. ⚠️ Don't stray too far from the main road; signal is weak in the forest, and it's easy to get lost. Choose a guesthouse in Beiji Village for accommodation. If the weather is clear at night, you might be lucky enough to see the aurora borealis. Don't be disappointed if you don't see it; the starry sky is already quite spectacular. 🍜 Try the iron pot stew and cold-water fish in the village, though they're not cheap. This place is suitable for those who want to completely unwind, not for those rushing through a itinerary. During the eight-day Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday, save it for the last part of your trip, and wrap it up slowly—much more comfortable than squeezing into popular cities. Of these eight destinations, I personally recommend Zhangye and Baoshan the most: one for its stunning landscape, and the other for hot springs. If you only have five days, skip the Greater Khingan Mountains and Alashan and save them for next time. Tell me in the comments where you're planning to go, and I'll help you avoid some pitfalls. Where to go during the 8-day Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday? These 5 destinations are less crowded and offer a more enjoyable experience. 01 Wuhan | Hubei To put it simply, Wuhan is best visited during the first three days of the holiday, when you're most energetic. For Yellow Crane Tower Park, I recommend entering as early as 8 AM when it opens. ⏰ At that time, the main building hasn't been overrun by tour groups, and you can clearly see the railway bridge of the Yangtze River Bridge from the fifth-floor corridor. Book tickets in advance through official channels; queuing at the ticket window can take up to 40 minutes. Don't expect to see East Lake in one trip; it's much larger than you think. Rent a shared bike and ride from Tingtao Scenic Area to the North Gate of Moshan Mountain; it takes about 40 minutes, with the lake breeze constantly blowing in your face. 📍 The metasequoia forest on Luoyan Island is just beginning to turn yellow in October, making it suitable for a leisurely walk with elderly people; the slope is gentle. Songyang Temple is in Huangpi District, and it's so quiet you might doubt your navigation. It can be combined with the Mulan Cultural and Ecological Tourism Area into a day trip: visit the ancient temple in the morning and explore the mountains in the afternoon. ⚠️ It gets dark quickly in the mountains, so you must head towards the exit before 4 PM, otherwise the winding mountain roads have no streetlights. The Mulan Scenic Area in Huangpi is suitable for families; the grassy slopes are large, allowing children to run freely. For accommodation, I prefer staying near Jianghan Road in Hankou. Enjoy a bowl of hot dry noodles with egg wine in the evening, and it's easy to cross the river by subway the next day. During the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, some sections of the East Lake Greenway will have traffic restrictions, so check the official announcements before you go. 02 Alashan | Inner Mongolia The poplar forests in Ejina only turn yellow for about twenty days a year, and the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays fall right at this window. ⏰ The best light is between 7 AM and 9 AM, when the reflection on the water at Erdaoqiao Bridge is most stable. Going later will result in a lot of tripods being used. The entrance fee plus the shuttle bus is a considerable expense; the specific price depends on the official announcement on the day. I advise you not to just take a bus into the Badain Jaran Desert for a quick tour. The truly breathtaking view is from the top of Bilutu Sand Dunes; the sheer cliff lines are impossible to capture in photos. 📍 The desert entrance is towards Yabulai. Hiring a car is more reliable than driving yourself; regular sedans can't get in. Accommodation is the biggest pitfall here. Prices in Ejin Banner town can triple during the National Day holiday. ⚠️ Booking two months in advance isn't early enough. If you can't book, consider staying in guesthouses on the outskirts of Dalaihob town. Families with young children shouldn't attempt desert camping; the temperature difference at night can reach 15 degrees Celsius. As for food, try the hand-pulled mutton and camel meat pies in town, but don't expect anything fancy. 🚄 It takes about six hours by bus from Yinchuan, and even faster from Jiuquan. This place is suitable for those who can tolerate a bumpy ride and want to see spectacular scenery; it's not suitable for vacationers seeking comfort. 03 Shijiazhuang|Hebei Shijiazhuang is often used as a transit point, but it's actually worth two days of exploring on its own. I recommend visiting the Zhaozhou Bridge after 4 PM. ⏰ The setting sun casts its rays on the stone arches, making the bridge's curves particularly clear. The entrance fee is inexpensive, and an hour is sufficient to explore. Locals sell pear syrup candy nearby. Xibaipo is located in Pingshan County, about an hour and a half drive from the city center. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. The exhibits mainly consist of text and artifacts. If you're bringing children, do some research beforehand to avoid rushing through. Zhengding Ancient City is my personal favorite. The reclining Guanyin statue at Longxing Temple is unforgettable. 📍 You can reach it by subway and bus from Shijiazhuang Station. The ancient city wall is perfect for a stroll after it's lit up at night. For food, try the Zhengding Eight Bowls and Beng Gan (a type of liver soup), but don't order too much as the portions are generous. For transportation, don't confuse Shijiazhuang Station with Zhengding Airport Station. A two-day, one-night itinerary is perfect: day one at Zhaozhou Bridge and Zhengding, day two at Xibaipo and back. Suitable for a short weekend trip, or a leisurely stroll with parents. 04 Urumqi | Xinjiang Urumqi deserves a full day; don't just treat it as a stopover on your way to Tianchi (Heavenly Lake). The International Grand Bazaar opens after 10 AM. 📍 The stalls selling dried fruit and carpets at the end of the pedestrian street offer better deals, while the souvenir shops at the entrance are overpriced. ⚠️ Before buying, ask whether it's priced by kilogram or pound. Hongguang Mountain is best visited in the evening; climbing to the top offers panoramic views of the city. ⏰ Arrive forty minutes before sunset, when the light transitions from golden to bluish-purple, providing excellent photo opportunities. The mountain isn't high, so even seniors can hike up slowly. Dabancheng is about 90 kilometers from the city center; the wind is strong enough to blow your hat away. The wind turbines against the backdrop of the Gobi Desert have a desolate yet beautiful charm. 🍜 On the way back, eat spicy chicken in Chaiwopu; it's a local favorite. For accommodation, I prefer staying near the South Gate or the Grand Bazaar, where there are plenty of places to eat in the evening. The Grand Bazaar gets very crowded during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, so keep an eye on your belongings. This place is suitable for first-time visitors to Xinjiang who want to experience the city's atmosphere first. 05 Baishan | Jilin Changbai Mountain is the most luck-dependent stop on this trip. Whether you can see Tianchi Lake depends entirely on the cloud cover that day. ⏰ I recommend taking the first bus up the mountain in the morning, before 10 am when the clouds haven't gathered yet. Tickets and bus tickets need to be booked in advance through official channels; specific rules are subject to the announcement on the day. Choose either the North Slope or the West Slope. The North Slope has more attractions, including waterfalls and hot springs, making it suitable for first-time visitors. The West Slope has more steps, suitable for those with good stamina who want to hike the alpine gardens. ⚠️ The temperature on the mountain is 10 degrees Celsius lower than at the foot of the mountain, so don't worry about the weight of your windproof jacket. For food, try the Korean cold noodles and barbecue in Erdaobaihe Town. 🍜 I don't recommend the dog meat restaurant in town that's been there for years. It's not a matter of taste, but many people can't accept it, so avoid it. It's about a two-hour drive from Baishan city to Changbai Mountain Scenic Area; you can hire a car or share a ride. This place is suitable for those willing to get up early and accept unpredictable weather. Don't be discouraged if you don't see Tianchi Lake; the forest and hot springs themselves are worth the price. 06 Baoshan | Yunnan Tengchong is the most worthwhile place to stop in Baoshan; I recommend leaving three days. I suggest staying overnight in Heshun Ancient Town. ⏰ In the early morning, the Washing Pavilion and the riverbank are almost deserted; that tranquility only exists before the daytime influx of tourists. The ancient town ticket includes several ancestral halls, so take your time exploring. The Volcanic Hot Spring Tourist Area is best visited in the afternoon. The boiling spring at the Big Boiling Pot looks scary, so don't get too close. ⚠️ Remember to bring your own swimsuit when soaking in the hot springs; buying one inside the scenic area is ridiculously expensive. You can paddle on grass rafts at Beihai Wetland, which is suitable for families with children. Yunfeng Mountain is a bit off the beaten path. The mountain road is steep, and it takes about 50 minutes to drive from Tengchong city. Those with average stamina can turn back halfway up; the scenery is already quite impressive. In autumn, the mountain colors begin to warm up, making it perfect for photography. For food, I recommend Da Jiu Jia (a local specialty) and Xi Dou Fen (a type of rice noodle soup), both available at breakfast stalls. Tengchong has an airport; a flight from Kunming takes about an hour, which is more convenient than taking a bus. Accommodation in Heshun Ancient Town is in high demand during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, so book in advance. 07 Zhangye|Gansu Choose the right time to visit the Rainbow Mountains. ⏰ Enter after 5:30 PM when the oblique sunlight illuminates the color bands most clearly; at midday, it appears as a grayish-red. There are four viewing platforms in the scenic area; take the shuttle bus and visit them in order, don't spend too much time on the first platform. Mati Temple is in Sunan County, about an hour's drive from the city. The Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes require climbing narrow stairs; ⚠️ those with a fear of heights or mobility issues can simply admire it from the outside. The murals in the temple are well-preserved; avoid using flash photography. Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple is located in the city center. The reclining Buddha inside is very long, and going inside will bring a sense of tranquility. 📍 It's a ten-minute walk from the Bell and Drum Tower. Along the way, you can visit Ganzhou Market and try a bowl of "cuo yu mian" (a type of noodle dish). Liqian Ancient City is further from the city center, and its exhibits are more focused on exhibitions; whether you go depends on your schedule. A two-day, one-night itinerary is recommended: Day 1: Sunset at Danxia Landform; Day 2: Giant Buddha Temple and Mati Temple. Suitable for self-driving or hiring a car. 08 Daxinganling | Heilongjiang Beiji Village is the northernmost stop on this trip. Visiting during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays allows you to catch the tail end of autumn colors. ⏰ From late September to early October, the birch forests are a vibrant yellow; any later and the leaves will have fallen. The northernmost post office in the village allows you to send postcards, adding a touch of ceremony. The Greater Khingan Mountains forest route is perfect for a self-driving trip. 📍 It's about 80 kilometers from Mohe to Beiji Village, and the road conditions are good. You can stop and drive along the way, and even find pine cones in the forest. ⚠️ Don't stray too far from the main road; signal is weak in the forest, and it's easy to get lost. Choose a guesthouse in Beiji Village for accommodation. If the weather is clear at night, you might be lucky enough to see the aurora borealis. Don't be disappointed if you don't see it; the starry sky is already quite spectacular. 🍜 Try the iron pot stew and cold-water fish in the village, though they're not cheap. This place is suitable for those who want to completely unwind, not for those rushing through a itinerary. During the eight-day Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday, save it for the last part of your trip, and wrap it up slowly—much more comfortable than squeezing into popular cities. Of these eight destinations, I personally recommend Zhangye and Baoshan the most: one for its stunning landscape, and the other for hot springs. If you only have five days, skip the Greater Khingan Mountains and Alashan and save them for next time. Tell me in the comments where you're planning to go, and I'll help you avoid some pitfalls.

Head to Tiangui Mountain in Pingshan, Shijiazhuang, and discover a hidden gem at the foot of the Taihang Mountains. Often called the "Guilin of the North," Tiangui Mountain blends the majesty of the Taihang Mountains with the delicate beauty of the south, making it a perfect destination for a short weekend getaway. With lush green mountains and uniquely shaped peaks and rocks, the karst caves and cliffs offer a distinct charm. The Qinglong Temple, built into the mountainside, is a rare royal Taoist temple from the Ming Dynasty. Its red walls and dark tiles are nestled against the cliffs, while its flying eaves and bracket sets evoke a sense of ancient history. A thousand-year-old ginkgo tree stands in the courtyard, holding centuries of history within its branches. The massive "Gui" (Return) cliff carving, a landmark of the mountain, is imposing and vigorous, adding a rich cultural depth to the green mountains. Stroll along the skywalk and gaze out from the railings to take in the panoramic views of layered mountains and seas of clouds. Stop by the classic White-Haired Girl Cave along the way to experience a unique piece of revolutionary history. With breezes blowing through the forest and ancient temples hidden in the quiet, it is the perfect place for both hiking and exploring history. Head to Tiangui Mountain for a gentle encounter with mountain breezes and ancient landscapes. Head to Tiangui Mountain in Pingshan, Shijiazhuang, and discover a hidden gem at the foot of the Taihang Mountains. Often called the "Guilin of the North," Tiangui Mountain blends the majesty of the Taihang Mountains with the delicate beauty of the south, making it a perfect destination for a short weekend getaway. With lush green mountains and uniquely shaped peaks and rocks, the karst caves and cliffs offer a distinct charm. The Qinglong Temple, built into the mountainside, is a rare royal Taoist temple from the Ming Dynasty. Its red walls and dark tiles are nestled against the cliffs, while its flying eaves and bracket sets evoke a sense of ancient history. A thousand-year-old ginkgo tree stands in the courtyard, holding centuries of history within its branches. The massive "Gui" (Return) cliff carving, a landmark of the mountain, is imposing and vigorous, adding a rich cultural depth to the green mountains. Stroll along the skywalk and gaze out from the railings to take in the panoramic views of layered mountains and seas of clouds. Stop by the classic White-Haired Girl Cave along the way to experience a unique piece of revolutionary history. With breezes blowing through the forest and ancient temples hidden in the quiet, it is the perfect place for both hiking and exploring history. Head to Tiangui Mountain for a gentle encounter with mountain breezes and ancient landscapes.

Hey everyone! Here is an 8-day itinerary for Handan and surrounding areas! All-inclusive and worry-free—no need to stress over planning or routes. Just follow along, perfect for laid-back travelers! · - Scroll down to check out this comprehensive guide ↓ · - 📒Recommended itinerary: D1: Arrive in Shijiazhuang D2: Guangfu Ancient City > Wahuang Palace D3: Zhaozhou Bridge > Zhengding Ancient City > Xibaipo Scenic Area D4: Baiyangdian Scenic Area > Ranzhuang Tunnel Warfare Memorial Hall D5–7: Eastern Qing Tombs > Chengde Mountain Resort > Putuo Zongcheng Temple D8: Return trip · - Tips: 1. For photos, choose the ancient pavilion at Congtai Park or the city walls of Guangfu Ancient City 📸, as the lighting is softer and better for pictures; 2. During local temple fairs, please do not touch folk performance props and respect local traditions 🙏; 3. We recommend dining in for Handan Zhua Mian and Ermao Roast Chicken, as they taste best when served hot 😋; 4. Don't trust low-priced tours offered by solicitors near scenic areas, as planning ahead is more worry-free. · - Enjoy a worry-free trip from start to finish! All-inclusive with no extra costs. Tap the card below to easily start your relaxing journey 👇