Tired of the crowds of popular destinations? These off-the-beaten-path towns offer convenient high-speed rail access and retain a rare sense of local life and pristine beauty. While they may not be as famous, they offer a more authentic sense of life, simple folk customs, and a more soothing, slow-paced pace.
01 Lanxi, Zhejiang: A Lazy and Relaxed Jiangnan Treasure Town
Located in Jinhua, Zhejiang, Lanxi is a less-visited yet underrated Jiangnan treasure town. Filled with ancient villages and historical sites, it boasts authentic local delicacies and preserves a truly authentic atmosphere.
Highlights:
Underground River Scenic Area: Take a boat into a karst cave, slowly sailing along the narrow river, admiring the diverse stalactites overhead and marveling at the wonders of nature.
Youbu Ancient Town: Experience the heartwarming atmosphere of life, with alleyways shrouded in curling smoke and bustling pedestrians, rich in cultural ambiance. Be sure to try the Youbu Morning Tea, which offers a variety of breakfast snacks and local specialties.
Zhuge Bagua Village: This unique ancient cultural village, unique in China, enjoys the reputation of "A Wonderful Bagua Village, a Unique One in China." It is also the largest settlement of Zhuge Liang's descendants.
Food Recommendations: Lanxi Beef Noodles (chewy noodles, generous and fragrant toppings), Chicken Buns (crispy skin, generous filling), Salty Rice Balls, Meat Sinkers, Taiye Chicken, Black Fish Stew.
02 Lichuan, Hubei: A Hidden Summer Resort
Lichuan is a county-level city under the jurisdiction of Enshi Prefecture, Hubei Province. Located in the Wuling Mountains, with an average altitude of approximately 1,000 meters, it boasts a rich ethnic atmosphere. The average summer temperature here is only 22-26°C, 8-10°C cooler than Wuhan and Chongqing. Air conditioning is rarely needed, and the humidity is moderate, making it a renowned summer resort.
Highlights:
Tenglong Cave: Asia's largest karst cave, a 5A scenic spot, boasts a constant temperature of 18°C. Enjoy laser shows, Tujia song and dance performances, and take a battery-powered car tour for a low-intensity walk.
Suma Dang: Known as "China's Most Beautiful Small Place," it's covered in wildflowers and forests, boasting a clifftop observation deck. It's a summer escape for residents of Chongqing and Wuhan.
Qiyue Mountain: South China's largest alpine grassland, at 1,500 meters above sea level, offers expansive views, windmills, and horseback riding. You can also drive up the mountain.
Recommended dishes: Lapizi Hot Pot (pig's trotter smoked with pine and cypress branches, stewed with highland potatoes and dried bamboo shoots), Hezha (soybean paste made by grinding unfiltered soybeans and adding green leaves), Baiyang Dried Tofu (made using an intangible cultural heritage technique), and Lichuan Doupi (rice paste noodles with a soft, chewy texture).
03 Bijie, Guizhou: A Cool and Relaxing Karst Secret
Located at the junction of Sichuan, Yunnan, and Guizhou, Bijie boasts a cool climate, making it a great escape from the summer heat. There's no overwhelming publicity or crowds here, yet it offers a long-awaited sense of relaxation.
Highlights:
Zhijin Cave: Considered the pinnacle of Chinese karst caves, this 17-story-high stalactite forest, illuminated by lights, feels like stepping into a divine treasure trove! Take a boat trip through the Earth's inner rivers and hike to see wonders like the "Bawang Helmet" and "Silver Rain Tree."
Jiudongtian: A world-class karst wonder encompassing underground streams, caves, skybridges, cenotes, and canyons! Take a boat trip beneath nine giant skylights, where light and shadows play and stalactites create a myriad of shapes.
Shexiang Ancient Town: Spectacular flower terraces, with colorful floral bands cascading like an earth painting. Rent a Yi costume for photos, and instantly transform into a stunning ethnic masterpiece. The tranquility of timeless tranquility is truly relaxing.
Recommended dining options: Linji Bean Soup Dumpling Hotpot, Douhua Bistro, and Yankao Huo You Lao Guo.
04 Jinyun, Zhejiang: A Timeless Gem Among the Mountains and Rivers of Southern Zhejiang
Tucked away amidst the mountains and rivers of southern Zhejiang, Jinyun, like a jade patinated by time, never needs to make its mark on tourist hotspots. Here, the landscape has long since transformed the mundane world into poetry, waiting for every visitor to quietly read.
Highlights:
Xiandu Scenic Area: A vibrant energy field filled with surprises, home to attractions such as Zhutan Mountain, Niweng Cave, Yandang Bookstore, and Little Chibi. Each of these landscapes and caves possesses its own unique charm, making it a worthwhile exploration.
Heyang Ancient Residences: Completely untouched by commercialism, smooth stone paths lead to old buildings adorned with horse-head walls and exquisite wood carvings. Occasionally, antique artifacts can be found on display, creating a quaint atmosphere.
Jiaolong Grand Canyon: A little-known hidden gem, nestled amidst mountains, bamboo forests, waterfalls, streams, and cliffs. Visiting during or after the rains will enhance the vibrant scenery.
Recommended Food: Jinyun sesame cakes are a local specialty, and other farm-style dishes also feature light, original flavors, emphasizing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
05 Bazhong, Sichuan, China's No. 1 Mountain for Red Foliage
Bazhong, nestled at the southern foot of Micang Mountain in the Daba Mountains, borders Shaanxi Province and is a gem of northern Sichuan. While known as "China's No. 1 Mountain for Red Foliage," it remains a low-key destination, rarely visited, and boasts world-class autumn scenery.
Highlights:
Guangwu Mountain: Famous for its crimson leaves, the area boasts over 680 square kilometers of crimson foliage, making it the largest crimson viewing area in Asia and known as "Asia's largest natural red carpet." There are over 40 varieties of crimson leaves.
Nuoshui Cave Heaven: Bazhong's stunning scenery extends not only above ground but also underground. The Nuoshui River hosts the world's largest collection of karst caves, spanning the geological age of its parent rocks. Nearly a hundred underground caves, some adjacent to underground rivers, some nestled in cliffs, and some within caves.
Enyang Ancient Town: Nestled between the towering Daba Mountains and the surrounding waters, nestles a thousand-year-old town. A leisurely stroll through 17 ancient streets and alleys reveals unexpected encounters with 589 ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Food recommendations: Local specialties such as Sichuan jelly noodles, Tongjiang Tremella soup, Nanjiang yellow sheep soup, and Bashan cured meat.
Travel Tips: All of the above towns are connected by high-speed rail, so it's recommended to book tickets and accommodation in advance. While these small towns offer affordable living, tourist facilities may not be as comprehensive as those in larger cities, so it's recommended to bring common medicines and essentials. Respect local customs and habits, especially in areas populated by ethnic minorities. Public transportation may be less frequent in less popular towns, so plan plenty of time. Traveling isn't just about seeing the sights; it's about experiencing a different way of life. Slow down and appreciate the unique charm of these cities. #TheMostAskedSpotsOnWeChat #TheSceneryOnTheRoad #ExperienceTheWinterBeauty