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

Feeling burned out and exhausted from work, wanting a short escape from the city? Here are 7 niche small towns directly accessible by high-speed rail, covering mountains, rivers, seas of clouds, hot springs, and ancient villages. No long journeys needed, just 3 days of slow wandering and unwinding. For around a thousand yuan per person, you can unlock a relaxed vacation. Routes, food, and accommodation are all organized – just save and go! · *Lishui, Zhejiang | Jiangnan Ink Painting Secret Realm** High-speed rail direct to Lishui Station. Experience the full healing power of Yunhe Terraces' morning mist, Songyang's rammed earth ancient villages, and Xiandu's fairy-tale landscapes. A 3-day itinerary includes visiting the terraces, boating in Guyan Huaxiang, and hiking in Xiandu. Must-try foods are Jinyun Shaobing and Qiaorou Geng. Stay in a terrace B&B to watch the sea of clouds in the morning. Budget: 1000-2200 yuan. · *Ningde, Fujian | Mountain, Sea, and Mudflat Scenery** Witness the stunning sunrise over Xiapu's mudflats, the unique granite peaks of Taimu Mountain, and the vibrant life of Huotong Ancient Town. Chase the light and shadows on the mudflats in the morning, enjoy fresh seafood at noon, and explore the ancient town in the evening. Recommended foods: Fuding Rou Pian and Oyster Omelet. Stay in a B&B in Dongbi Village, Xiapu, with sea views from your window. Cost: 1200-2600 yuan. · *Baoshan, Yunnan | Hot Spring, Caravan, Slow City** Hike and breathe in the fresh air of Gaoligong Mountain, bask in the sun in Heshun Ancient Town, and soak away fatigue in Rehai hot springs. Signature dishes include Huopiao Beef and Xidoufen. The itinerary combines ancient town exploration with wetland grass raft experiences. Heshun B&Bs offer a strong ambiance. Budget: 1300-2600 yuan. · *Ya'an, Sichuan | Tea-Scented Panda Town** Pick tea on Mengding Mountain, the birthplace of tea, see giant pandas at Bifengxia, and soothe your fatigue in Zhougong Mountain hot springs. Handmade Tata Noodles and Ya Fish Soup are not to be missed. Stay in a tea garden or ancient town B&B for a gentle and healing journey. Cost: 1300-2300 yuan. · *Chizhou, Anhui | Poetic Landscape and Buddhist Realm** Experience the sea of clouds on Jiuhua Mountain, the poetic wine culture of Xinghua Village, and cycling around Pingtian Lake. The Qiuhe River and Guniujiang streams are serene. Savor Jiuhua Vegetarian Dishes and Shitai Yipin Pot. B&Bs at the foot of the mountain are quiet and secluded. Per person: 1200-2600 yuan. · *Shangrao, Jiangxi | Huizhou Ancient Village Painting** Marvel at the unique peaks of Sanqing Mountain, the Huizhou-style villages of Wuyuan, and the excellent photo opportunities of Huangling's "sun-drying autumn" spectacle. Authentic specialties include Qigao and Yanshan Tangfen. You can stay in a Wuyuan ancient village B&B, explore the mountains during the day, and enjoy snacks at night. Budget: 1000-1800 yuan. · *Chenzhou, Hunan | Misty Danxia Wonderland** Witness the morning mist and fishing boats on Xiaodong River, the water-eroded Danxia landforms of Gaoyiling, and the alpine grasslands of Yangtian Lake. For breakfast, slurp a bowl of Qifengdu Fish Noodles, and soak in hot springs in the evening. Dongjiang Lake B&Bs offer superb views. Cost: 1300-2800 yuan. · *Practical Travel Tips** 1. **Travel Pace:** Maintain a slow pace throughout the trip, no need to rush or check off every sight. Focus on unwinding, strolling, soaking in hot springs, and breathing fresh air – perfect for low-energy individuals. 2. **Accommodation Choices:** For scenic spots, prioritize B&Bs near the attractions to save on travel time. City hotels offer better value for money. 3. **Packing Essentials:** Mountainous areas have large temperature differences between day and night, so bring a light jacket. For coastal or rainy regions, pack sunscreen and rain gear. 4. **Saving Money:** Local old streets and market snacks are affordable and authentic. Avoid tourist trap restaurants to significantly reduce your per-person meal expenses. No need to travel far; a short high-speed rail trip can lead you to a tranquil escape. Let the mountains and evening breeze carry away your work anxiety and life's exhaustion, giving yourself a healing solo journey.

In Ningde, Mount Taimu Scenic Area is never quite the same mountain twice. At sunrise, its granite peaks emerge from a sea of clouds, suspended between earth and sky. By afternoon, sunlight carves sharp shadows across cliffs and stone formations. When rain arrives, mist drifts through the valleys, softening every outline until the mountain resembles a traditional ink painting. And after the storm passes, the clouds part slowly, revealing layers of ridges stretching toward the horizon. To spend time here is to watch a landscape continually reinvent itself. The mountain is shaped not only by rock and forest, but by light, weather, and atmosphere. Clouds gather and dissolve. Sunlight appears and disappears. Every hour redraws the scenery. Among ancient pines, winding paths, and weathered stone pinnacles, there is a feeling that the mountain is quietly performing for those willing to wait. No single photograph can define it; each image becomes only one portrait among countless possibilities. 📍 Location: Mount Taimu Scenic Area 🏔️ Region: Ningde, Fujian Province ✨ Known for: Granite peaks, sea of clouds, dramatic weather, coastal mountain landscapes 📸 Highlights: Sunrise cloud seas, mist-filled valleys, rock formations, changing light conditions 🌅 Best moment: Dawn after rainfall, when clouds weave between the peaks and the mountain feels closest to legend Some mountains have a single famous view. Mount Taimu offers a thousand—painted anew by every sunrise, every rainstorm, and every drifting cloud. ☁️⛰️✨

As the summer breeze sweeps across the coast of Fujian, the Fujian No.1 Coastal Scenic Route, stretching over 1,800 kilometers, unfolds a healing and passionate summer journey with mountains and sea as its canvas and sea breeze as its brush. This "Southeast Coastal Gallery," centered around National Highway G228, connects six cities and one district including Ningde, Fuzhou, Quanzhou, Xiamen, and Zhangzhou, encompassing the ultimate coastal scenery and cultural heritage along 3,752 kilometers of coastline. The summer scenic route is a moving visual feast. Heading south, on the left, vast blue waves; on the right, layers of green hills—spectacular mountain and sea views are everywhere. The tidal flats of Xiapu shimmer with golden light at dawn, fishing boats cast silhouettes on the mirror-like sea surface, each snapshot worthy of National Geographic; the "Blue Tears" in Pingtan waters surge with the night tide, glowing waves like a fallen starry river weave a dreamy midnight scene; the basalt columns of Zhangzhou’s volcanic island bear the majestic marks of millions of years of volcanic activity. This route is also a perfect blend of nature and culture. Stroll across Quanzhou’s Luoyang Bridge and touch the texture of the millennium-old Maritime Silk Road civilization, where red brick ancient houses and swallowtail ridges tell stories of the old city; wander along Xiamen’s East Ring Romantic Line, where colorful tracks, golden beaches, and mangroves create a lively scene, with the sea breeze carrying youthful energy; pause at Putian’s Meizhou Bay to listen to the tides and feel the warm, healing life of fishing villages. Along the way, over 50 unique rest stops and hundreds of viewing platforms ensure every stop brings a delightful surprise. The beauty of summer lies in the pursuit of freedom and poetry. No need to rush the itinerary—slowly travel along the coastal scenic route, watch the sunrise dye the river red, see the sunset kiss the shore, listen to the gentle sea waves, and savor the fresh sweetness of just-caught seafood. Here, there is no city noise, only the vastness of mountains and sea, the softness of the breeze, and the peace within your heart. This summer, don’t stay confined to a small space. Head to the Fujian Coastal Scenic Route for a romantic journey across mountains and seas, let the sea breeze heal all your fatigue, let the mountain and sea scenery fill your summer with beauty, making every trip a tribute to passion and every glance a breathtaking sight!

Overshadowed by Baishuiyang! Ningde Yuanyangxi Grand Canyon is perfect for summer hiking! ✨ Come to Pingnan, Ningde to escape the summer heat and play in the water, everyone flocks to Baishuiyang! But I honestly think the neighboring Yuanyangxi (Mandarin Duck Stream) is the real hidden gem! Both are national 5A-rated scenic areas, but Yuanyangxi's popularity is far less than Baishuiyang. It's less crowded, tranquil, and lush with greenery everywhere. Waterfalls and streams are continuous, making it a niche and therapeutic summer hiking paradise, perfect for family outings and relaxing strolls! 🏞️Basic Attraction Information 📍Detailed Address: Shuangxi Town, Pingnan County, Ningde City, Fujian Province 🎫Ticket Policy: Tickets are separate from Baishuiyang and not interchangeable. Free entry with a 'Qingxin Fujian Culture and Tourism Card'. Important reminder: Reservations must be made 1 day in advance; same-day reservations are invalid! 🌟Scenic Area Features: Its core features are wild macaques, mandarin ducks, and rare vegetation. It integrates multiple natural landscapes including streams, waterfalls, peaks, rocks, caves, pools, and mist. The scenic area's waterfalls have abundant water flow year-round and never dry up, with large drops and wide coverage. You can also walk into caves to admire the spectacular water curtain, creating an incredible atmosphere. 🗺️Recommended Route We recommend taking the classic 8-kilometer loop trail. The entire path is a well-developed trail, smooth and easy to walk. The loop means no backtracking, offering an excellent experience. Walking along the canyon, you'll be surrounded by lush green mountains. The canopy provides ample shade, so you'll barely be exposed to the sun, making it super cool and comfortable in summer. Along the way, ribbon-like waterfalls cascade continuously, creating a magnificent and soothing spectacle. Many people come specifically to see the wild mandarin ducks, but I didn't encounter any this time. However, I was pleasantly surprised to see many lively wild macaques. You can spot them jumping and darting through the forest everywhere, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to stop at the "Small Heavenly Lake" deep within the scenic area! The emerald green, clear lake water is serene and gentle, with schools of red carp swimming freely. The red and green hues create a natural landscape painting, perfect for photos. 💡Practical Tips 1. Monkey Safety is Key: The macaques in the scenic area are lively and not afraid of people. They will actively try to snatch plastic bags and snack wrappers from visitors. Make sure all your belongings are securely stored in your backpack and not carried openly. 2. Stick to the Trails: Always follow the official, well-maintained trails for maximum safety. Do not venture into remote, unofficial paths to avoid getting lost or encountering danger. 3. What to Wear: The mountain paths are generally gentle, but some sections can be damp. Be sure to wear non-slip athletic shoes. Bring a small amount of drinking water and light snacks. 4. Best Time to Visit: You can visit all day in summer, but entering the mountains in the morning offers more comfortable temperatures, avoiding the stuffy heat of the afternoon, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the canyon's coolness. Compared to the bustling and crowded Baishuiyang, Yuanyangxi offers a greater sense of mountain tranquility. The canyon scenery, with a new view at every turn, and the therapeutic waterfalls and streams, allow you to unlock a perfect summer mountain trip at a low cost!

On this trip to Ningde, Fujian, I was honestly just trying my luck to see the Blue Tears, and I can't believe I actually caught them! ✨ The ocean breeze was super gentle that day. As the sky slowly darkened, a very, very faint blue glow began to appear over the calm sea. At first, you'd doubt your own eyes, but the moment the waves actually crashed ashore, it was as if the entire coastline suddenly lit up. The blue light surged along with the rolling waves, giving off a totally out-of-this-world vibe. 🥹 Those weren't just ordinary waves; every crash looked like stars being crushed into the seawater. Looking closely, you'll find even the sea foam was glowing—shimmering and flickering, like the Milky Way had fallen right at my feet. For those few minutes standing by the sea, I literally couldn't take my eyes off it. This photo set captures a few moments from my Blue Tears chase that night: the blue fluorescence as the waves just started to curl, the illuminated sea foam along the shore, and the moment the whole ocean entered its most dreamy state as the night completely fell. Seeing it live is way more breathtaking than the pictures because the blue light isn't static; it flows constantly with the waves. 💫 If you're also planning to chase the Blue Tears in Ningde, I highly recommend not just coming for a quick photo op. Because its most fascinating part is that you have to wait—it depends on the weather, the sea conditions, and a bit of luck. Precisely because you can't guarantee a perfect sighting every time, the surprise is overwhelmingly strong when you finally do see it. 📍 Location: Seaside in Ningde, Fujian 🌌 Tip: The blue glow is much easier to spot after it gets completely dark 📷 Photography: Phones work too, but it's honestly way more beautiful to the naked eye 💙 Vibe: This isn't your average ocean view; it's a magical maritime encounter that brings you a deep sense of peace. If you ask me whether Ningde's Blue Tears are worth a special trip? My answer is: Absolutely. Because some views aren't just "pretty," they are sights you'll remember for a very, very long time once you've seen them with your own eyes. Travel 💙🌊✨

Just returned from Mount Taimu in Ningde, and I declare this place is absolutely the pinnacle of spring travel! 🌿 Known as the "Fairyland on the Sea," this 5A-level scenic area in March is covered with mountain flowers and just the right temperature—truly a divine spot tailor-made for spring! 🚗 Transportation Guide: · 🚅 For high-speed train travelers: Directly arrive at "Taimushan Station," where a dedicated shuttle bus to the scenic area awaits right outside (💰10 RMB/person) · 🚙 For self-driving travelers: Exit at the Taimushan interchange on the Shenhai Expressway, then navigate to "Taimushan Visitor Center" 🌈 Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions: 1️⃣ Couple Peaks Square 🌄 · The landmark couple of Mount Taimu! Two giant rocks embracing each other · 📸 Best time to shoot: 6-7 AM (the mist is super fairy-like!) 2️⃣ One Line Sky ⛰️ · One of the narrowest spots in the country (narrowest part only 20cm!!) · 💡 Tips: Wear loose clothes and pass sideways for safety 3️⃣ Sea Viewing Cliffwalk 🌊 · 820-meter cliffside walkway (not for those afraid of heights!) · 🌅 On clear days, you can see Sandu'ao Bay, where sea and sky blend beautifully 4️⃣ Jiuli Lake 🎣 · Crystal-clear lake water like a mirror (the reflections are stunning!) · 💦 During rainy season, you can see a hundred-meter waterfall (water volume is sufficient in March-April) 5️⃣ Hulu Cave 🕳️ · A must for adventure lovers! · ⚠️ Essential gear: non-slip shoes + flashlight 😋 Foodie Guide: · Fuding Pork Slices 🍲 An old brand at the scenic area entrance, sour, spicy, and chewy with added yellow pepper vinegar! · Seafood Feast 🦪 Qin'yu Town stalls, fresh razor clams and mussels caught and cooked on the spot · Betel Nut Taro Paste 🍮 A Fuding specialty dessert, dense, sweet, and super comforting 🧳 Pre-trip Essentials: · 👟 Wear non-slip shoes! Both mountains and caves require climbing · 🧥 Onion layering: short sleeves + sun protection shirt + light jacket · 🎒 Travel light! One Line Sky may trap bags warning · ⏰ Enter before 8 AM to avoid crowds and catch morning mist and sea of clouds · 🔋 Bring a power bank! Signal on the mountain is intermittent 🌸 March Exclusive Perks: · Wildflowers blooming all over the mountain 🌺 · Temperature around 20℃ ⛅ · Relatively fewer tourists 🧘 💖 Personal Experience: The beauty of Mount Taimu is wild and untamed! Jagged stone peaks and vast sea views make it a natural art gallery sculpted by nature itself. Visiting in spring truly brings a feast of surprises for the eyes.

During the May Day holiday, I took my parents to 4 romantic island cities, all reachable by high-speed rail—perfect for a family getaway! 1️⃣ Semporna 🚄 Transportation: High-speed rail direct to Tawau Airport, shuttle between the airport and Semporna costs 30 MYR per person Semporna town is about a half-hour drive from the hotels in town, around 25 MYR 🏨 Accommodation: Recommended overwater bungalows where you can jump straight into the sea from your room! Prices around 300+ MYR per night 🌊 Activities: Daily boat trips for diving and snorkeling, plus visits to Turtle Island to feed the turtles—ideal for family trips! 2️⃣ Bohol Island 🚄 Transportation: Direct flight from Shanghai to Cebu, then a 1.5-hour boat ride to Bohol Island 🏨 Accommodation: Beachfront resorts with villas featuring private pools for just 1500 RMB! 🌴 Activities: Relax on the beach listening to the waves, and visit the Chocolate Hills to watch the sunrise and sunset—super romantic! 3️⃣ Ningde 🚄 Transportation: High-speed rail direct to Xiapu Station, then a 20-minute taxi ride to the guesthouse 🏨 Accommodation: Recommended seaside guesthouse with views of the Blue Tears right outside your window! Prices around 500 RMB per night 🌊 Activities: Snorkel at night to see the Blue Tears, and during the day visit fishing villages for seafood stalls—50 RMB per person for a feast! 4️⃣ Qionghai 🚄 Transportation: High-speed rail direct to Boao Station, then rent a car for a convenient island drive 🏨 Accommodation: Recommended seaside guesthouse with an amazing environment! Prices around 200 RMB per night 🌴 Activities: Drive a campervan daily to the beach to catch seafood and collect shells, and take photos in the coconut groves—super healing!

For the 2026 Spring Festival in Fujian, themed "Min-style Lucky New Year," over 1,500 cultural and tourism events will be held across the province, offering a continuous festive atmosphere throughout the region. Traditional intangible cultural heritage blends with modern technology, bringing you the most ceremonial and immersive Spring Festival experience with delicious local flavors, scenic mountain and sea views, public benefits, and the profound meaning of "Fu" (luck) culture! 🏮【Intangible Cultural Heritage and Folk Customs Feast · Authentic Festive Atmosphere】 More than 220 intangible cultural heritage-themed events across the province, including deity parades, iron flower performances, street processions, ladder climbing, and barefoot firewalking. Experience the clash of flesh and steel and feel the resilient spirit of the Ming Dynasty’s anti-pirate efforts. Putian Lantern Festival: From the third day of the first lunar month to the second day of the second lunar month, enjoy iron ball striking, clay puppet performances, traditional lanterns, and fireworks that never fade. Quanzhou: The grand parade of Xunpu women’s floral headpieces, reenactments of Gaojia Opera scenes from the Song and Yuan Maritime Silk Road era, with over 200 street processions daily blending tradition and fireworks. Fuzhou: The grand deity parade in splendid costumes, led by the crown prince and goddess, with full participation on social media through short videos. 💡【Technology Empowering the Lucky New Year · Innovative Experiences】 AI Script Tours: Real-scene challenge games in Changting Ancient City, with "Wenxin Secret Realm" and "Top Scholar’s Journey" from the first to the seventh day of the lunar new year, taking you through Tulou alleys. Light and Shadow Shows: The "Classic of Mountains and Seas" lantern festival at Xiamen Garden Expo Park, and the "Two Horses Welcome Spring" intangible heritage lantern show at Fuzhou Shipbuilding Cultural Park, shining brightly from February 4 to March 8. 🍲【Delicious Flavors of Luck · Auspicious Foods】 Fuzhou’s alternate-year meal, Zhangzhou’s mass distribution of "Red Turtle Cake," Afang braised noodles, Baishui tribute candy, Dongshan shumai—each dish symbolizes "abundance every year" and "luck at the forefront." Recommended local delicacies: Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, Pingtan salted rice cake, Shaxian full beef feast, with seasonal special events in major cities featuring Min-style cuisine. Min Tea Warms Winter: Wuyi Mountain rock tea tasting, Quanzhou tea table culture, sharing warmth with the tea mountain clouds. 🏖️【Mountain and Sea Lucky Scenery · Spring Festival Highlights】 Xiamen Island Ring Road Mother’s Square fireworks gala, immersive live Danjia fishing songs at Shapowei on February 17. Longyan Changting drone show, full city opening ceremony, Hakka New Year customs experience at Sanyuan Pavilion and Wolong Academy. Zhangzhou Nanjing cherry blossom season, Tianluokeng Tulou flower sea; Ningde She ethnic mountain songs and silver jewelry experience, showcasing the unique folk customs blending sea and mountain cultures. 🎁【Public Benefits for Fun and Convenience · Worry-Free Travel】 Free metro and bus rides in Fuzhou from February 15 to March 3, 6 million cultural and tourism consumption vouchers issued province-wide, and discounts at scenic spots with transportation tickets. Xiamen offers 31,000 free parking spaces, special discounted tickets for major scenic spots, 60,000 reservation tickets for Fuzhou Panda World, and special offers for the Sanjiangkou Lantern Festival. 🧧【Cultural Depth · Triple Expression of the "Fu" Symbol】 Famous Spirits: "Year of the Horse Lucky Traces" AI connects Sanfang Qixiang and Yan Fu’s former residence, experiencing the continuity and innovation of history. Striving Women: Xunpu women’s garden headpieces and Hui’an women’s colorful scarves highlight the strength of oceanic women. International Lucky New Year: Cultural and tourism promotions at New York Times Square, Xiamen Airlines’ five-star tea ceremony, and global celebrations by Fujian overseas Chinese to welcome the new spring. A province-wide festive atmosphere, with the charm of mountain and sea Min culture shining even brighter. Come to Fujian this Spring Festival and enjoy a "full dose of luck" all in one place!

🌊 Ningde August-September Travel Guide is here, with a typhoon season survival guide + niche activities. This is all you need to impress your friends! ------ 🏞️ Must-Visit Attractions | Unlock All Hidden Photo Spots by the Mountains and Sea 1. Yushan Island · Southern Heavenly Mountain ◦ Ten Thousand Acre Meadow + Heavenly Lake Secret Realm: From the mountaintop, watch the sea of grass stretch towards the azure ocean 🌿. The meadow is fully green from May to September, super healing! Take a glass boat at Moon Bay to see the jelly-like sea, and camp overnight to wait for the Milky Way to fall ✨ (Admission + Ferry Ticket ¥126). ◦ Summer Heat Escape Tip: Hike after 4 PM, the sea breeze is super strong and cool. Wearing a white dress for photos looks stunning! 2. Xiapu Mudflats · Master of Light and Shadow ◦ Beiqi Sunrise: Get your spot at 5 AM! Capture the grid patterns of nori racks in the light and shadow 🌅 (Free, bring a tripod to prevent shaky hands). ◦ Dongbi Village Sunset: At 6 PM, fishing boats pass through the golden waterway. Take silhouettes from the stone house rooftops 📸. The "Sea Piano" installation at the village entrance is free for photos! 3. Taimu Mountain · Immortal Capital on the Sea ◦ Hardcore Play: Squeeze through the 30cm wide "One-Line Sky" (super thrilling to pass sideways), and overlook the surging mist of the East China Sea from the suspended bronze hall of Xiangshan Temple 🌁 (Admission ¥140 including scenic shuttle). ◦ Cooling Trick: General's Cave maintains a constant 25℃! The rock walls are icy cool, like a natural air-conditioned room~ 4. Baishuiyang · Shallow Water Carnival ◦ World's Only Shallow Water Square: Barefoot surf on the 80,000㎡ riverbed 💦, and drift down a hundred-meter slide through natural massage grooves (Admission ¥120, non-slip socks ¥5 a must-buy). ◦ Night Session Easter Egg: Fluorescent night drifting added in August! After 7:30 PM, the water glows blue, super dreamy ✨. 5. Sixian Islands · Real-Life Zelda ◦ Island Hopping Guide: Take photos of a giant dragon entering the sea at Dongxian Island's cliff meadow ⚔️, feed seagulls at Hongxian Island (bring your own bread), and stay in a stone house on Beixian Island for night squid fishing. ◦ Transportation Tip: Boats depart from Xiapu Jishi Pier at 9:30 AM (Only 1 trip daily! Contact the captain in advance to reserve a spot). · ----- 🍜 Food Recommendations | Eat Until You Cry for ¥20 Per Person · Carb Overload: Fuding Rou Pian (Meat Slices): Handmade and chewy at "Uncle Rou Pian" on the back street, add yellow chili + rice vinegar for a spicy and sour kick 🔥 (¥10). Guangbing with Zaojiang (Fermented Ginger): Charcoal-grilled flatbread with traditional red fermented ginger at Huotong Ancient Town, savory, fragrant, and crispy (¥3/each). · Seafood Feast: Yellow Croaker with Fermented Grains: Order steamed at Xiapu food stalls, the fish meat is infused with amber-colored wine aroma 🐟 (¥60 per person). Stewed Razor Clams with Aged Wine: At Fuding Seafood Street, the razor clam meat bursts like sea cheese, paired with aged wine, it's intoxicating~ · Mountain & Wild Delicacies: Rice-Smoked Rabbit: Rice-smoked rabbit with a rice aroma from Shuangxi Ancient Town, Pingnan, the charred fragrance permeates the fibers (¥30/jin). Black Rice: Glutinous rice dyed black with Nandina leaves at Houdun She Village, sprinkle with brown sugar or serve with salted pork 🍙 (Free to experience making). · Sweet Tooth's Delight: Betel Nut Taro Paste: Whipped into a cloud-like consistency at Fuding dessert shops, sprinkled with osmanthus honey, sweet, glutinous, and not greasy 🍨 (Chilled version is more refreshing). · ----- 📅 3-Day 2-Night Itinerary | Mountain & Sea Air-Conditioned Route Day 1: Island Wind Chasing Day · Morning: Xiapu Jishi Pier → Yushan Island Moon Bay for wading → Seafood stall for grouper 🐠. · Afternoon: Heavenly Lake Meadow for photos of "half grassland, half sea" → Wait for sunset on the mountaintop. · Evening: Camping and stargazing ✨ or staying at a fisherman's home for night-caught squid. Day 2: Mudflat Light & Shadow + Immortal Realm · Early Morning: 5 AM Beiqi Mudflats for sunrise photos → Dongbi Village for a stroll on the light and shadow boardwalk. · Afternoon: Taimu Mountain for "One-Line Sky" → General's Cave to escape the heat → Suspended Bronze Hall to see the sea of clouds. · Late Night Snack: Fuding Chuchi Honey Glazed Chicken Wings (Smoky and sweet, ¥8/piece). Day 3: Shallow Water Carnival · Full Day: Pingnan Baishuiyang for barefoot surfing → Hundred-meter slide rafting → Shuangxi Ancient Town for rice-smoked rabbit + medicinal small intestine soup 🍲. · Alternative: Yuanyang Stream for waterfall exploration (Water Curtain Cave to touch spring water for cooling). · ----- 🚗 Transportation Tips | Money-Saving & Pitfall-Avoiding Edition · Long-Distance Transportation: ◦ ✈️ Fly to Fuzhou, then transfer by high-speed rail to Ningde Station (Fuzhou → Ningde 26 minutes ¥28). ◦ 🚄 Shanghai/Hangzhou → Ningde by high-speed rail (4 hours), rent a car for self-driving upon arrival (Wuling Hongguang ¥120/day). · Local Transportation: ◦ Island Hopping: Book Yushan Island/Sixian Islands ferry tickets 3 days in advance! During typhoon season, follow "Ningde Culture and Tourism" WeChat official account for suspension information. ◦ Car Chartering Hack: Xiapu Mudflat spots are scattered, rent a car for ¥300/day or use "Min Yun Yue Ba" for ride-sharing (saves 50% compared to taxis). · Key Pitfall Prevention: ⚠️ Put your phone in a waterproof bag when surfing at Baishuiyang! Losing 2000+ phones annually is no joke. ⚠️ Food and drinks are expensive in Taimu Mountain Scenic Area, bring your own dry food + 2L water (hiking consumes a lot of energy). · ----- 💡 Key Reminders 1. Weather: August is typhoon season 🌪️, bring an umbrella; September gets cooler, bring a light jacket; UV rays are super strong! Arm sleeves + hat + sunscreen are a must-have~ 2. Accommodation: ◦ In Xiapu, stay at "Shijianhai" Cliff Homestay in Dongbi Village (directly facing the mudflats). ◦ On Yushan Island, choose Moon Bay tents ⛺️ or Xinghai Resident Homestay (meadow view from the window). 3. Souvenirs: ◦ Fuding White Tea (Buy Shoumei from tea factories in Niutou Town, starting from ¥50/cake). ◦ Ready-to-eat Spicy Yellow Croaker (Sandu Port specialty, ¥30/pack). 4. Cultural Easter Eggs: ◦ Watch Wire Lion Dance performance at Huotong Ancient Town (Intangible Cultural Heritage skill). ◦ Oil Painting Experience at Pingnan Longtan Village (Centuries-old village transformed into an art commune). ------ 💬 The romance of Ningde is the whisper of grass waves and sea breeze on Yushan Island, the scattered gold caught by fishing nets on the mudflats, and the spicy and sour human world simmering in the meat slice soup~ While the seagulls haven't dispersed and the meadows are still green, come and be a person in the mountain and sea painting for a few days!

The best thing about autumn is to travel during off-peak hours Go to my travel list 🍽️Shiguang Restaurant (Dongbi Village Branch) 🏨The new business model of Shijianhai B&B integrates a cafe, tea room and western restaurant 🌊Environment The western restaurant is on the second floor When you open the door, you will see a 360° sea view floor-to-ceiling window There was a moment I feel that the beauty of the sunset before my eyes is not so real... ✨Service From the greeting at the door to the meal, the service was excellent We wanted to take some photos in the restaurant The waiter also kindly lit the candles first. The "atmosphere" that people often discuss on the Internet I think that's the feeling of coming here 🍴Dishes As soon as we saw the presentation of each dish, we knew this restaurant couldn’t be wrong! Black Truffle Mushroom Soup💯 The mushrooms are delicious, and I personally like the Western-style thick soup Mexican beef patties 🌮Super crispy And the dessert Napoleon after the meal 👍🏻 I hope the steak will be more tender next time. This store is full of details From design\environment to service You can feel the care of the owner #good places to go in autumn #sign up for hotel test sleeper #weekend trip #overseas travel #beach photography guide #mainland customs clearance #mainland hotels #mainland attractions #mainland travel #food recommendation #restaurant recommendation

Worried your wife wants to travel but fears crowds, sun exposure, or spending too much? Don’t worry! I’ve picked 4 ancient towns with few people, stunning scenery, and low costs. She’ll be so happy she’ll post on social media 😊 🏯 Meicheng ancient town (Jiande, Zhejiang) This town has over 1,800 years of history and used to be the seat of Yanzhou prefecture. 👉 Highlights: Climb the Chengqingmen ancient city wall. On one side is Wulong Mountain, on the other the old town—amazing views! Walk along the main street, where the cobblestone road is lined with old archways, like stepping back in time. If you have the energy, visit Daci Rock, a temple hanging in midair. The series “Joy of Life 2” was filmed here! 🗺️ How to explore: Start with the city wall → then stroll the main street and South Street → watch the shrimp lantern parade at night, with lanterns floating on the water—so beautiful. Plan 3 to 5 hours. 🍜 What to eat: Jiande spicy tofu buns, Yanzhou baked flatbread, corn cakes. ⚠️ Note: Free entry! 1.5-hour drive from Hangzhou. Wear comfortable shoes; the cobblestone road is uneven. 🌊 Nanxun ancient town (Huzhou, Zhejiang) The only water town in Jiangnan with Western-style old houses, blending East and West—very fun. 👉 Highlights: Bai Jian Lou, with 400 meters of old houses lining both sides of the river. When lanterns light up at dusk, it looks like a painting! Xiaolian Manor, a 10-acre lotus pond with pavilions and towers—perfect for photos. Liu’s Staircase House, a red brick Western-style building that feels like you’re abroad. 🗺️ How to explore: Enter from the south gate → Xiaolian Manor → Jiayetang library → Zhang Shiming’s former residence → Liu’s Staircase House → then take a boat to Bai Jian Lou to watch the sunset. Plan 3 to 4 hours. 🍜 What to eat: Shuangjiao noodles (crispy meat and fish), Dingsheng cake, Xunti (large pig’s trotters). ⚠️ Note: Main street is free, but a combined ticket for small attractions costs 85 yuan. Wear flat shoes. Before 9 AM or after 4 PM is less crowded and best for photos. 🎨 Longtan ancient town (Ningde, Fujian) Recommended by National Geographic, it’s completely uncommercialized and very authentic! 👉 Highlights: Walk 3 kilometers on cobblestone roads polished smooth by footsteps—very atmospheric. A century-old covered bridge over the creek. On misty mornings, photos taken on the bridge look magical. Old houses with yellow walls and black tiles, red lanterns hanging—just like grandma’s house when you were a kid. 🗺️ How to explore: Enter the village → covered bridge → main street → wander small alleys to see old houses → sit by the creek and relax. Half a day is enough. 🍜 What to eat: Rice-braised rabbit (meat is firm), taro noodles, cold grass jelly noodles. ⚠️ Note: Free entry! Best to drive yourself; mountain roads are winding, so drive carefully. Bring mosquito repellent and wear non-slip shoes. 🏛️ Longmen ancient town (Fuyang, Zhejiang) Most residents are descendants of Sun Quan, and 90% share the surname Sun—pretty amazing! 👉 Highlights: Sun family ancestral hall, a Ming dynasty building where you can learn about Sun Quan’s family history. Yanchi night moon, where white walls and black tiles reflect on the water—especially beautiful at night. Alleys paved with cobblestones like a maze, with centuries-old houses everywhere you wander. 🗺️ How to explore: Visit the ancestral hall → then the Yimen archway → then Yanchi → finish by watching villagers wash clothes by Longmen Creek. About 2 hours. 🍜 What to eat: Sun Quan gluten (freshly fried and crispy), native chicken soup, Longmen beef. ⚠️ Note: Main street is free, but tickets are required to enter old houses. 1-hour drive from Hangzhou. Lots of cobblestone roads, so wear non-slip shoes. Each of these four ancient towns has its own charm. Pick the one closest to you and head out this weekend! Your wife will be happy, and you’ll be relaxed—what could be better? 😄

01 Jixi | Heilongjiang Xingkai Lake and Hutou, I recommend splitting them into two days. Trying to do both in one day will tire your legs. Xingkai Lake is better in the afternoon. The evening light turns the lake golden. Sitting on the beach in a daze, the breeze is cool, and the water is warm. Hutou is best early in the morning. Before 9 AM, there are fewer visitors. Walking along the riverbank, you can hear birdsong and water sounds. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes around Hutou. Don’t skip long pants and long sleeves. 🍜 For lunch, pick any small restaurant in Hutou town. Fish soup noodles cost only 12 yuan and are so fresh you won’t want to talk. Xingkai Lake tickets are 40 yuan. Hutou is free but parking is tight. If driving, arrive before 9 AM for the best chance to park. Both places are mostly flat with no hills, so suitable for elderly and children. 02 Zhaoqing | Guangdong Xinghu is a place to sleep in and take it easy. Enter the park at 10 AM, then take a boat to the lake island. It’s windy on the island, so bring a light jacket. The lakeside trail is about 7 km long. Don’t foolishly walk the whole way—rent a shared bike and ride to the west gate. It takes about half an hour. 📍 Enter through the east gate of Qixingyan. On the left is a stall selling wrapped steamed rice dumplings for 6 yuan each. The glutinous rice is soft and tender, the salted egg yolk oozes out, much better than the chain stores inside the park. After 3 PM, the light is best. The lake reflects the stone hills, so no filter is needed for photos. ⚠️ Bottled water in the park costs 8 yuan, but the convenience store at the entrance sells it for 3 yuan. Bring two bottles with you. Tickets are 78 yuan. Booking online one day in advance saves 10 yuan. The whole route is flat and wheelchair- and stroller-friendly. 03 Yuxi | Yunnan Fuxian Lake and Ailao Mountain have completely different vibes. Fuxian Lake is for relaxing. Find a lakeside guesthouse, bring a chair in the afternoon, and sit by the water watching clouds drift over the mountains. The water is so clear you can see the stones at the bottom. If you want to get in, wear slippers and wade in the shallow water. The water is cool but comfortable. 🍜 The signature dish at lakeside restaurants is copper pot fish. One fish with potato rice costs about 50 yuan per person. The fish soup is so fresh you’ll want to lick the bowl. Ailao Mountain is a different story. You need to drive up the mountain. The road is winding, so take motion sickness medicine if needed. The wind is strong at the top. After 10 minutes, you’ll want to hide back in the car, but the open feeling is something the plains can’t offer. ⚠️ Don’t trust roadside offers for “free lake tours” at Fuxian Lake—they’re scams to take you to shopping stores. Neither place is suitable for rushing. Plan at least half a day for each. 04 Hulunbuir | Inner Mongolia The grassland isn’t a tourist spot; it’s a state of mind. In August and September, the grass is still green, but mornings and evenings are cool. A light down jacket is not too much. Don’t rush to attractions in the morning. Visit a herder’s home, drink some milk tea, and watch the sheep slowly move. In the afternoon, drive deeper into the grassland. The grasslands on both sides of the road are yellow and green. The wind carries the smell of cow dung and grass. Honestly, it’s intoxicating. 📍 Navigate to near the Morigele River and find a parking spot. That section of the grassland is the most photogenic. ⚠️ Don’t park randomly by the roadside to take photos. Some areas are herders’ pastures, and they may charge a fee. Horse riding at official stables costs about 150 yuan per hour. Roadside offers are cheaper but unsafe. There’s no shade on the grassland, so sunscreen and a hat are essential. Don’t forget sunglasses. 05 Yueyang | Hunan Yueyang Tower, Dongting Lake, and Junshan Island can be done in one day but don’t rush. Start with Yueyang Tower in the morning. Tickets are 70 yuan. Climb the tower to see Dongting Lake. The famous phrase “worry before all others” is right before your eyes. The stairs inside are narrow and crowded when busy, so arrive before 9 AM. After descending, walk south along the lake. It’s a 10-minute walk to Baling Square, where there’s a stall selling sugar oil rice cakes for 3 yuan each. Sweet but not greasy. In the afternoon, go to Junshan Island by boat. Round-trip tickets plus admission cost 120 yuan. The island is small and can be toured in 2 hours. The main sights are Xiangfei bamboo and Liuyi well. ⚠️ Food on the island is expensive and average. Bring some snacks. If you only want to see the lake view, you can skip Junshan Island. The lakeside trail is free, and the sunset there is better than on the island. 06 Xiangyang | Hubei Gulongzhong is best enjoyed slowly. Don’t rush. Tickets are 80 yuan, cheaper if booked online in advance. Enter at 9 AM and visit Sangu Tang and Caolu Pavilion first. These two spots are the most crowded, so go early. The park has many trees, so it’s shady in summer, but mosquitoes are fierce. Bring insect repellent. The whole walk takes about 2 hours. There aren’t many stairs, so elderly visitors can manage. 📍 On the street outside the park exit is a beef noodle shop. Xiangyang beef noodles with yellow wine cost 15 yuan a bowl. It’s spicy enough to make you sweat, which feels great. If you still have energy in the afternoon, walk the ancient city wall of Xiangyang. It’s free and offers views of the Han River flowing below. ⚠️ Don’t buy souvenirs from shops inside Gulongzhong. Prices are inflated. Half a day is enough for the whole trip. Save the other half for the city wall and riverside. 07 Jiaxing | Zhejiang Wuzhen and Xitang—choose one, don’t be greedy. Wuzhen is more orderly. Tickets are 150 yuan. A combined ticket for East and West districts is 200 yuan, but the West district night view is worth the price. Enter West district at dusk. When the lights come on, the water is full of reflections. Find a riverside teahouse and sit for an hour. It costs about 30 yuan per person and is very comfortable. Xitang feels more like everyday life. Tickets are 95 yuan. After 5 PM, entry is half price, but ticket checks are lax, so you might get in without paying. Xitang has many bridges, one every few steps, great for photos but crowded. Avoid weekends. 🍜 In Wuzhen, the scholar’s lamb noodles cost 45 yuan a bowl. The lamb is stewed tender, the broth rich, but the portion is small. ⚠️ Don’t book guesthouses in either place during holidays. Prices double, and availability is limited. If time is tight, one afternoon and evening in Wuzhen West district is enough. 08 Ningde | Fujian Ningde’s attractions are scattered, so choose carefully. Taimu Mountain is for hiking lovers. Tickets are 120 yuan. The full hike takes 4–5 hours with many stairs. If you have bad knees, skip it. Baishuiyang·Yuanyang Creek is better for summer. The water is shallow and clear. Walking barefoot in the water is refreshing, but the stones are slippery, so don’t run. 📍 Beiqi mudflat in Xiapu is a photography spot. Go at sunrise when the light hits the mudflat, creating amazing lines. But it depends on the weather. It’s useless on cloudy days. Don’t confuse Xiapu mudflat with Beiqi mudflat. Beiqi is east of the county town, a 15-minute taxi ride. The mudflat is near Shajiang town, farther away. ⚠️ The wind is strong at the top of Taimu Mountain. Bring a windbreaker. Food near Baishuiyang is expensive, so bring snacks. Ningde’s attractions are far apart. Driving is most convenient. Without a car, public transport wastes a lot of time waiting.

Want to have a great time on a limited budget? These 8️⃣ places offer amazing value for money! 01 Zhongwei | Ningxia In Zhongwei, you can see both the desert and the Yellow River together, and the entrance fee is cheaper than you might expect. Shapotou is divided into the Yellow River area and the desert area. It's recommended to head to the desert area first; the morning light is good, the dunes are sharply defined, and you won't need filters for photos. The sheepskin raft rafting on the Yellow River section takes about half an hour, filled with the sound of water and the raftman's tunes—a completely different experience from riding a speedboat. ⚠️ Drinks are expensive inside Shapotou Scenic Area. Bring two bottles of water; the money you save can buy you a grilled sausage. Gaomiao Baoan Temple is located in the city center, and the entrance fee is only a few yuan. The interior structure is incredibly intricate, with the above-ground buildings and underground palace connected, making it feel like a maze. Go around 3 or 4 pm; the sunlight streaming into the halls through the side windows creates stunning light and shadow effects. After exploring, a ten-minute walk will take you to the snack street around the Drum Tower. 🍜 A bowl of wormwood noodles with braised tofu costs less than 20 yuan per person – a satisfying meal. 🚄 A taxi from Zhongwei South Station to Shapotou takes about 20 minutes. Without a meter, the price is a flat rate of around 40 yuan; negotiate the price beforehand before getting in the car. 02 Jiaxing|Zhejiang I've clarified the differences between Wuzhen and Xitang for you. Wuzhen Xizha is best visited at night. With the lights on, the outline of the water town is fully revealed, and a nighttime boat ride is the highlight, but the entrance fee is indeed not cheap. Xitang is more authentic. During the day, walk along the stone-paved streets, and you'll see soy-braised duck and dried plum vegetables drying by the river – the lively atmosphere is palpable. If you're short on time, choose one; if your budget is even tighter, choose Xitang – the entrance fee is significantly cheaper, and you can even get free entry to the scenic area for a bowl of wontons. I prefer Xitang in the morning. Arriving at 7 AM, the morning mist hadn't yet dissipated, and locals were already washing clothes by the river. Walking across the Songzi Laifeng Bridge, then circling back to the main street from the Huanxiu Bridge, the whole trip took two hours. There were so few tourists you could hear your own footsteps. For lunch, just find a small riverside restaurant; whitebait and cicada skin dumplings are the standard order, a meal for two costs only around 100 yuan. ⚠️ Accommodation prices in Xitang double during holidays; booking two weeks in advance can save you a lot. In Wuzhen, go to Dongzha in the afternoon; you can see everything in two hours, and it's more cost-effective than Xizha. 03 Yuxi|Yunnan Fuxian Lake is my dream destination. The lakeside road is free; rent an electric scooter and ride slowly. The lake water is so blue it seems unreal. You can swim in the Luchong Scenic Area; the sand isn't fine, but it's warm to the touch. After 6 PM, the sunlight shines obliquely on the water, making the whole lake look like it's plated with gold. Many farmhouses offer meals along the lake, where you can enjoy a pot of copper pot fish with potato rice for around 40-50 yuan per person. The fish soup is so delicious it'll make your eyebrows fall off! The Ailao Mountain route is another option, suitable for hiking enthusiasts. The Shimenxia Scenic Area has affordable tickets; the boardwalk follows the stream upstream, the water roaring, the air filled with the dampness of vegetation, and the perceived temperature several degrees lower than outside. ⚠️ The stone steps inside are slippery, so don't wear flip-flops. Gasa Town at the foot of the mountain is home to the Dai ethnic minority, where mangoes and tamarind are incredibly cheap. After your visit, return to Yuxi city and have a bowl of cold rice noodles with fried potatoes near Nie Er Park for less than 20 yuan. 04 Ya'an | Sichuan Ya'an is a city nurtured by rain, and Bifengxia Gorge is its soul. Upon entering the scenic area, take a sightseeing bus to the Panda Base. The pandas are most active around 9 am, munching on bamboo, climbing trees, and fighting – you could watch for an hour without getting bored. Afterwards, walk down the canyon boardwalk, waterfalls one after another, and the spray from the water is refreshing. Even in summer, you won't sweat much after the entire walk. The whole trip takes about three hours. It's recommended to wear non-slip shoes, as some parts of the boardwalk are quite steep. ⏰ At noon, leave the scenic area and head directly to Shangli Ancient Town at the foot of the mountain. The town itself doesn't charge an entrance fee. Erxian Bridge is a must-see photo spot; the stream under the bridge is crystal clear, and you can see small fish swimming around. There are many small shops selling "tart noodles" in the town. 🍜 A bowl of beef tart noodles is only ten yuan. The noodles are chewy, and the broth is spicy and numbing—it leaves you feeling completely refreshed. ⚠️ Don't buy Bifengxia tickets from scalpers at the entrance. Booking through official channels a day in advance can save you ten or twenty yuan. In Ya'an city, there are also free Xikang Bridge and the Qingyi River walking path, which are very pleasant for an evening stroll. 05 Foshan|Guangdong Foshan isn't just about kung fu; Qinghui Garden and Xiqiao Mountain are the real value-for-money destinations. Qinghui Garden is located in Daliang, Shunde. The entrance fee is around ten yuan, and its exquisite Lingnan garden style rivals that of Suzhou. The garden features layered rockeries, waterside pavilions, and covered corridors. It's best to visit in the morning when the sunlight filters through the Manchurian windows, creating beautiful dappled patterns on the ground. After visiting, you'll find yourself on Huagai Road Pedestrian Street. The double-skin milk pudding and fried milk at Minxin Old Shop are must-try items, averaging around twenty yuan per person—sweet but not cloying. Xiqiao Mountain has a higher entrance fee, but it's definitely worth it. It's recommended to enter from the South Gate, take the sightseeing bus up the mountain, and then walk down. This saves energy and allows you to see Baiyun Cave, Tianhu Lake, and the South Sea Guanyin statue. It's windy at the summit, so remember to bring a light jacket. The Huang Feihong Lion Dance and Martial Arts Museum at the foot of the mountain is worth visiting. ⚠️ There are lion dance performances at fixed times every day; check the schedule beforehand to avoid missing them. There's also an old street at the foot of the mountain selling Xiqiao flatbreads; the freshly baked flatbreads have a flaky crust and make a great souvenir. 06 Yantai | Shandong For this Yantai itinerary, I suggest you choose between Penglai and Changdao; visiting both would be too rushed. The Penglai Pavilion scenic area has a relatively expensive entrance fee, but the ancient architecture and seaside boardwalk are definitely worth a visit, especially at sunset when the city walls and sea are bathed in orange-red hues, creating stunning silhouette photos. ⚠️ There are many touts offering "day tours" at the exit of the Penglai Pavilion scenic area; don't believe them, they are all shopping tours. I highly recommend Changdao. Take a boat from Penglai Wharf; the journey takes about 40 minutes and the ticket costs a few dozen yuan. The most worthwhile places to visit on the island are Jiuzhang Cliff and Crescent Bay. The cliffside boardwalk at Jiuzhang Cliff follows the sea-eroded cliff face, with turquoise water below and seagulls circling overhead—a breathtaking experience comparable to those abroad. At Crescent Bay's pebble beach, don't just focus on taking photos; squat down and collect a few smooth pebbles to take home as souvenirs. There are many guesthouses on the island that offer accommodation and meals, costing around 150 yuan per person including three meals—you'll be stuffed with seafood! 🚄 There are tourist buses from Yantai city to Penglai, the journey takes an hour and a half, much cheaper than taking a taxi. 07 Baishan|Jilin Changbai Mountain is the most straightforward scenic area I've ever seen. Entrance fees and the environmental protection bus are clearly priced, with no hidden costs. Between the North and West slopes, I recommend the North slope more, as it has more attractions; you can see Tianchi (Heavenly Lake), Changbai Waterfall, Green Abyss Pool, and the Underground Forest in one day. ⏰ To see Tianchi, be sure to arrive early, before 8:30 am at the transfer center. This will help you avoid peak tour groups, and the weather is relatively stable in the morning, increasing your chances of seeing the entire lake. It's windy and cold at the summit, so renting a down jacket is a wise choice; don't skimp on the extra few dollars. After descending the mountain, don't rush off. The Northeastern cuisine in Erdaobaihe Town is cheap and delicious. 🍜 Sweet and sour pork, stir-fried potatoes, green peppers, and eggplant, and chicken stew with mushrooms—three dishes for two people, enough to fill you up, only costs 40 yuan per person. ⚠️ Many vendors in town sell dried blueberries, but the prices are inflated. Ask before you buy and try to bargain down to half price. If you have enough time, visit the free sculpture park in town; the forest paths are very pleasant to walk on, and you can even see squirrels darting around. 08 Ningde | Fujian Taimu Mountain is the most "unconventional" mountain I've ever seen. The rocks are shaped in all sorts of bizarre ways, and the narrow "One Line Sky" is so narrow you can only pass sideways—even a slightly larger person might get stuck. The entrance fee plus shuttle bus is a little over 100 yuan, but exploring the caves on the mountain is definitely worth it. I recommend going in the morning, first exploring the Calabash Cave, then climbing the seaside boardwalk. The whole trip takes four hours and is quite physically demanding, but the scenery is absolutely worth the effort. ⚠️ The caves are slippery, so be sure to wear non-slip shoes. A headlamp and your phone's flashlight are sufficient. Baishuiyang is the ultimate water play area. The flat bedrock riverbed stretches as far as the eye can see, and the water only reaches your ankles. Walking barefoot on it is cool and refreshing. Ideal to visit in the afternoon, when the sun warms the water, making it perfect for splashing and water fights. Yuanyangxi (Mandarin Duck Stream) is right next door; a combined ticket for both scenic areas is more cost-effective. The hiking trail follows the stream, with constant waterfall sounds, and if you're lucky, you might spot wild macaques. Beiqi Mudflats in Xiapu are a photographer's paradise. At low tide, the tiger-skin mudflats shimmer with gold under the setting sun, dotted with the silhouettes of fishing boats – every shot is wallpaper-worthy. 🚄 A 30-minute bullet train ride from Ningde Station to Xiapu Station. From there, hire a car to Beiqi Village for around 20 RMB, arriving just before sunset. Can you still have a great time on a budget? These 8️⃣ places offer excellent value for money. 01 Zhongwei | Ningxia In Zhongwei, you can see both the desert and the Yellow River together, and the entrance fee is cheaper than you might expect. Shapotou is divided into the Yellow River area and the desert area. It's recommended to head to the desert area first; the morning light is better, highlighting the dune lines and making photos without filters. The sheepskin raft rafting trip along the Yellow River takes about half an hour. The only sounds are the water and the raftman's humming tunes – a completely different experience from riding a speedboat. ⚠️ Drinks are expensive inside the Shapotou scenic area. Bring your own two bottles of water; the money saved can buy you a grilled sausage. Gao Temple and Bao'an Temple are located in the city center. The entrance fee is only a few yuan, but the interior is incredibly intricate, with the above-ground buildings and underground palace connected, making it feel like a maze. Go around 3 or 4 pm; the sunlight streaming into the halls through the side windows creates beautiful light and shadow effects. After visiting, a ten-minute walk will take you to the food street around the Drum Tower. 🍜 A bowl of wormwood noodles with braised tofu costs less than 20 yuan per person – a satisfying meal. 🚄 A taxi from Zhongwei South Station to Shapotou takes about 20 minutes. Without a meter, the price is a flat rate of around 40 yuan; negotiate the price beforehand before getting in the car. 02 Jiaxing|Zhejiang I've clarified the difference between Wuzhen and Xitang for you. Wuzhen Xizha is best explored at night. With the lights on, the entire water town's outline comes into view, and a nighttime boat ride is the highlight, though the entrance fee is quite expensive. Xitang is more authentically local. During the day, walk along the stone-paved streets, watch the dried ducks and preserved vegetables drying by the river, and feel the vibrant atmosphere. If you're short on time, choose one; if your budget is tighter, choose Xitang—the entrance fee is significantly cheaper, and you can even get free entry to the scenic area for a meal of wontons. I prefer Xitang in the morning. Arrive before 7 am, the morning mist hasn't dissipated, and locals are already washing clothes by the river. Walk across the Songzi Laifeng Bridge, then circle back to the main street from the Huanxiu Bridge. The whole two-hour walk is so quiet you can hear your own footsteps. For lunch, find a small riverside restaurant; whitebait and cicada skin are a standard meal, costing only around 100 yuan for two people. ⚠️ Accommodation prices in Xitang double during holidays; booking two weeks in advance can save you a lot. In Wuzhen, visit Dongzha in the afternoon; you can see everything in two hours, and it's more cost-effective than Xizha. 03 Yuxi | Yunnan Fuxian Lake is my dream lake. The ring road around the lake is free; rent an electric scooter and ride slowly. The lake water is so blue it seems unreal. You can swim in the Luchong Scenic Area. The sand isn't fine, but it's warm to the touch. After 6 pm, the sunlight shines obliquely on the water, making the whole lake look like it's plated with gold. There are many farmhouses along the lake; you can eat a pot of fish in a copper pot with potato rice for around 40-50 yuan per person. The fish soup is so delicious it'll make your eyebrows fall off! The Ailao Mountain route is another option, suitable for hiking enthusiasts. The Shimenxia Scenic Area has a reasonable entrance fee. The boardwalk follows the stream upstream, the water roaring, the air is full of moisture from the vegetation, and the perceived temperature is several degrees lower than outside. ⚠️ The stone steps inside are slippery; don't wear flip-flops. Gasa Town at the foot of the mountain is a settlement of the Dai ethnic minority; mangoes and tamarind are so cheap you'll question reality. After returning to Yuxi city, we went to Nie Er Park for dinner, enjoying a bowl of cold rice noodles and some fried potatoes—a meal costing less than 20 yuan. 04 Ya'an | Sichuan Ya'an is a city nurtured by rain, and Bifengxia Gorge is its soul. Upon entering the scenic area, we first took a sightseeing bus to the Panda Base. Around 9 am, the pandas are most active, munching on bamboo, climbing trees, and fighting—you could watch them for an hour without getting bored. Afterwards, we walked down the canyon boardwalk, passing waterfalls one after another, with mist spraying in our faces. Even in summer, we didn't sweat much after walking the entire way. The whole trip takes about three hours; non-slip shoes are recommended, as some parts of the boardwalk are quite steep. ⏰ At noon, we left the scenic area and went directly to Shangli Ancient Town at the foot of the mountain. The ancient town itself doesn't charge an entrance fee. Erxian Bridge is a must-see photo spot; the stream under the bridge is crystal clear, and you can see small fish swimming around. There are many small shops selling beef tart noodles in the town. 🍜 A bowl of beef tart noodles costs only ten yuan. The noodles are chewy, the broth is spicy and numbing, and you'll feel completely refreshed after eating. ⚠️ Don't buy Bifengxia tickets from scalpers at the entrance. Booking through official channels a day in advance can save you ten or twenty yuan. In Ya'an city, there are also free Xikang Bridge and the Qingyi River walkway, which are very pleasant for an evening stroll. 05 Foshan|Guangdong Foshan isn't just about kung fu; Qinghui Garden and Xiqiao Mountain are the kings of value for money. Qinghui Garden is located in Daliang, Shunde. The entrance fee is only a dozen yuan, and the exquisite Lingnan garden is comparable to Suzhou. The garden features layered rockeries, waterside pavilions, and covered corridors. It's best to go in the morning when the light shines through the Manchurian windows, creating beautiful dappled patterns on the ground. After visiting, you'll find Huagai Road Pedestrian Street. 🍜 The double-skin milk and fried milk at Minxin Old Shop are must-try dishes, averaging twenty yuan per person, sweet but not greasy. Xiqiao Mountain's entrance fee is a bit more expensive, but it's definitely worth it. I recommend entering from the South Gate, taking the sightseeing bus up the mountain first, and then walking down. This saves energy and allows you to see Baiyun Cave, Tianhu Lake, and the South China Sea Guanyin statue. It's windy at the summit, so remember to bring a light jacket. The Huang Feihong Lion Dance and Martial Arts Museum at the foot of the mountain is worth visiting. ⚠️ There are lion dance performances at fixed times every day, so check the schedule beforehand to avoid missing them. There's also an old street at the foot of the mountain selling Xiqiao flatbreads; the freshly baked crust is incredibly crispy, making them a great souvenir. 06 Yantai | Shandong For this Yantai trip, I suggest you choose between Penglai and Changdao; visiting both would be too rushed. The Penglai Pavilion scenic area has a relatively expensive entrance fee, but the ancient buildings and seaside boardwalk are definitely worth a visit, especially in the evening when the sunset paints the city walls and sea orange-red, creating stunning silhouette photos. ⚠️ There are many touts offering "day tours" at the exit of the Penglai Pavilion scenic area; don't believe them, they are all shopping tours. I highly recommend Changdao. Take a boat from Penglai Wharf; the journey takes 40 minutes and the ticket costs a few dozen yuan. The most worthwhile places to visit on the island are Jiuzhang Cliff and Crescent Bay. The cliffside walkway at Jiuzhang Cliff follows the sea-eroded cliff face, with turquoise water below and seagulls circling overhead – a breathtaking experience comparable to those abroad. At Crescent Bay's pebble beach, don't just focus on taking photos; squat down and collect a few smooth pebbles to take home as souvenirs. There are many guesthouses on the island offering accommodation and meals, costing around 150 yuan per person including three meals – you'll be stuffed with seafood! 🚄 There are tourist buses from Yantai city to Penglai, a journey of one and a half hours, much cheaper than taking a taxi. 07 Baishan|Jilin Changbai Mountain is the most straightforward scenic area I've ever seen. The entrance fee and environmental protection bus price are clearly marked, with no hidden costs. Between the North Slope and West Slope, I recommend the North Slope more, as it has a dense concentration of attractions; you can visit Tianchi Lake, Changbai Waterfall, Green Abyss Pool, and the Underground Forest in one day. ⏰ To see Tianchi (Heavenly Lake), arrive early. Get to the transfer center before 8:30 AM to avoid peak tour crowds. The weather is also relatively stable in the morning, increasing your chances of seeing the entire lake. It's windy and cold at the summit, so renting a down jacket is a wise choice; don't skimp on the cost. After descending the mountain, don't rush off. The Northeastern cuisine in Erdaobaihe Town is cheap and delicious. 🍜 Sweet and sour pork, stir-fried potatoes, green peppers, and eggplant, and chicken stew with mushrooms – three dishes for two people will leave you stuffed, and it only costs 40 yuan per person. ⚠️ There are many vendors selling dried blueberries in town, but the prices are inflated. Ask before you buy, and try to bargain down to half price. If you have time, visit the free sculpture park in town. The forest paths are very pleasant to walk on, and you can even see squirrels darting around. 08 Ningde|Fujian Taimu Mountain is the most "unconventional" mountain I've ever seen. The rocks are shaped in all sorts of bizarre ways, and the narrow "One Line Sky" is so narrow you can only pass sideways; even a slightly overweight person might get stuck. The entrance fee plus shuttle bus costs a little over 100 yuan, but the cave exploration in the mountains is definitely worth it. It's recommended to go in the morning, first exploring the Calabash Cave, then climbing the seaside boardwalk. The whole trip takes four hours and is quite physically demanding, but the scenery is absolutely worth the effort. ⚠️ The caves are slippery, so be sure to wear non-slip shoes. A headlamp and your phone's flashlight are sufficient. Baishuiyang is the ultimate water play area. The flat bedrock riverbed stretches as far as the eye can see, with water only ankle-deep, feeling cool and refreshing underfoot. It's best to go in the afternoon when the sun warms the water, making splashing and water fights incredibly fun. Yuanyangxi is right next door; a combined ticket for both areas is more cost-effective. The hiking trail follows the stream, with constant waterfall sounds, and if you're lucky, you might spot wild macaques. Xiapu Beiqi Mudflats are a photographer's paradise. At low tide, the tiger-skin mudflats shimmer with gold under the setting sun, dotted with the silhouettes of fishing boats—every shot is wallpaper-worthy. 🚄 The bullet train from Ningde Station to Xiapu Station takes half an hour. After exiting the station, you can hire a car to Beiqi Village for around 20 yuan. Arriving before sunset is ideal.

Don’t want to squeeze into popular big cities or rush through a special forces itinerary! These 4 short-distance hidden gem towns You can escape in 2 hours by high-speed train. Slow pace, low prices, fewer tourists Perfect for a weekend to relax, unwind, and recharge✨ 🌿 Huzhou|Zhejiang’s gentlest Jiangnan small town 1h direct by high-speed train from Shanghai/Hangzhou Avoid the crowds of Xitang and Wuzhen This is a quiet, gentle, and original Jiangnan town perfect for slow strolling ✅ must-visit spots ▪️ Nanxun ancient town: a lively water town with white walls and black tiles by the river, full of Jiangnan atmosphere everywhere you look ▪️ Moganshan: bamboo forest for fresh air and summer escape, peaceful and healing mountain scenery, ideal for relaxing and unwinding ▪️ Taihu Moon Bay: free lakeside trail, stunning lake sunset views in the evening 🍜 must-try foods: qianzhang bao, fresh meat zongzi, lamb noodles, Xinshi tea cake 🌶️ Quzhou|low-cost foodie paradise 2h direct by Shanghai-Hangzhou high-speed train A truly underrated, cost-effective small town Beautiful mountains and rivers, quiet ancient villages, and best of all, tons of snacks and very low prices! ✅ must-visit spots ▪️ Shuitingmen ancient street: free night stroll, lantern-lit ancient alleys full of atmosphere ▪️ Jianglang Mountain: a world natural heritage site, lush greenery, easy hiking for fresh air ▪️ Nianbadu ancient village: no commercial traps, simple, quiet, and authentic ▪️ Southern Confucius sacred site: serene ancient buildings, few people, very comfortable 🍜 must-try foods: Quzhou baked cake, crystal cake, “three heads one palm,” authentic farmhouse dishes 💰 Two days and one night for about 600 per person, top choice for budget travel! 🌊 Ningde|Fujian’s off-the-beaten-path mountain and sea secret 2h direct by high-speed train from Fuzhou Quieter than Xiamen, gentler than Quanzhou Sea, tidal flats, islands, and unique mountains all in one place Pristine sea views, fresh and cheap seafood ✅ must-visit spots ▪️ Xiapu tidal flats: legendary sunrise and sunset light and shadow, layers of fishing boats, super healing ▪️ Sandu’ao: boat ride to see the sea fishing village, off the beaten path and unique ▪️ Tailao Mountain: mountain and sea connected, hiking and sea views combined 🍜 must-try foods: Fuding pork slices, fresh yellow croaker, affordable small seafood 🌫️ Jinyun|real-life ink-wash fantasy small town 2h direct by high-speed train from Hangzhou Consistently ranks as a healing off-the-beaten-path travel spot Cloudy misty mountains, ancient villages, pastoral scenery, like stepping into a traditional Chinese painting ✅ must-visit spots ▪️ Xiandu scenic area: Dinghu Peak, Shiban Creek Bridge, full of fairy-like charm, great for photos ▪️ Heyang ancient residences: thousand-year-old original ancient village, simple and authentic, no noisy tourists ▪️ local snack street: full of everyday life vibe, very pleasant to walk and eat 🍜 must-try foods: Jinyun baked cake, Tushuang noodles, meat soup 💡 summary lazy guide Want to explore gentle Jiangnan → Huzhou Want low-cost food and shopping → Quzhou Want stunning mountain and sea views → Ningde Want ink-wash healing and relaxation → Jinyun Weekend short escapes, no need to travel far You can enjoy a whole comfortable and relaxed holiday🌿

Tired of crowded, popular spots? Don’t want to rush or just skim through These 4 lesser-known small towns are accessible by high-speed rail Fewer crowds, affordable prices, and ideal for a short 3-day getaway🌿 🌿① Xingyi, Guizhou|A mountain and water bonsai hidden in the southwest 🚄Transport: Direct high-speed rail from multiple cities A karst secret surrounded by mountains, with 20,000 peaks stretching endlessly Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in pastoral scenery ✅3-day sample itinerary Day 1 Arrive → bike through Wanfenglin, stroll through Nahui Buyi village Day 2 Hike Malin River Gorge, explore waterfalls and water curtains Day 3 Explore the small town and savor local specialties, leisurely return 🍢Must-try: Gangzi noodles, chicken rice balls 💡Tip: Large temperature difference between morning and night in the mountains, bring a light jacket 🌿② Hezhou, Guangxi|An eco-friendly summer retreat 🚄Transport: Direct high-speed rail, cool and comfortable in summer Millennia-old town, forest streams, and unique jade stone forest all in one place Low commercialization, full of authentic local life ✅3-day sample itinerary Day 1 Visit Huangyao ancient town, enjoy the ancient alley at dusk and night Day 2 Breathe fresh air and cool off at Gupo Mountain, play in mountain streams Day 3 Check out the jade stone forest’s unique rock formations, easy return 🍢Must-try: sour beef intestines, five-color glutinous rice, stuffed melon flowers 💡Tip: The ancient town’s stone paths are uneven, wear comfortable flat shoes 🌿③ Ningde, Fujian|A secluded mountain and sea paradise 🚄Transport: Half-hour direct train from Fuzhou One side with stunning peaks, the other with tidal flats and sea Xiapu sunsets, island meadows, and diverse landscapes ✅3-day sample itinerary Day 1 Climb Mount Tailao, admire strange rocks and sea of clouds Day 2 Chase breathtaking sunsets over Xiapu tidal flats, feast on seafood Day 3 Visit Yushan Island, explore alpine meadows and twin crater lakes 🍢Must-try: fresh seafood, Fuding pork slices 💡Tip: Check tide schedules in advance for tidal flat photography 🌿④ Shiping, Yunnan|Slow-paced ancient town in southern Yunnan 🚄Transport: 1.5-hour direct high-speed rail from Kunming A quiet, healing small town with very few tourists, vintage old streets Vast Yilong Lake and nostalgic narrow-gauge train ✅3-day sample itinerary Day 1 Leisurely explore Shiping ancient town, visit the Confucian temple and century-old academy Day 2 Wait for sunrise at Yilong Lake, experience the narrow-gauge train Day 3 Stroll through Zhengying ancient village, enjoy a tofu feast before returning 🍢Must-try: aged tofu, pan-fried fish, waxberry soup 💡Tip: The narrow-gauge train runs on a fixed schedule, buy tickets in advance 📝Travel selection guide Want to see mountain and water paintings → Xingyi Looking for summer cool-down and relaxation → Hezhou Prefer mountain and sea scenery → Ningde Enjoy quiet ancient towns and slow living → Shiping No need for long drives, easy high-speed rail departures Take 3 days to escape the noise and truly unwind~

In Xiapu, I was completely dazzled by the beauty of the tidal flats! 💫 Every inch of this land is a photographer’s paradise~ Beaches, tidal flats, sea harvesting, culture... endless photo opportunities, seriously endless! My camera’s memory is about to explode 😂 ⚠️ Important reminder: Don’t come to Xiapu on cloudy days! You really won’t get any good shots ☁️ It’s best to choose sunny or lightly foggy weather The light at dawn and dusk is the most photogenic ✨ 📆 Shooting time: All photos were taken in June Xiapu looks unbelievably beautiful at this time Light and shadow play across the tidal flats, every shot looks like a masterpiece 😍 Photo tips: 1. Remember to bring a telephoto lens 2. Wear non-slip shoes if possible 3. Check tide times in advance 4. Prepare sunscreen! It’s really important 🌞 📸 Basic info about the shooting location: All the beautiful scenery is at the Xiapu tidal flats Located in Xiapu County, Ningde City, Fujian Province No admission fee, open all year round!

Having visited many coastal cities, Xiamen is lively and noisy, Sanya is full of trendy spots, but it wasn’t until I arrived in Ningde that I found a unique mountain-and-sea romance. The whole small city blends ocean, fishing villages, tidal flats, and alpine meadows into one. It’s lightly commercialized, has few tourists, and offers affordable prices—perfect for workers looking for a weekend getaway to relax at a slow pace. The natural scenery needs no filter. Every snapshot looks like a masterpiece. Ningde is truly an underrated treasure of Fujian. 🌊 Three genuine impressions of Ningde 1. The scenery is unique and hard to replicate elsewhere Other seaside spots only have beaches and waves. Ningde offers fishing rafts, tidal flats, cliff sunsets, and rare island grasslands, creating a rich, layered landscape. 2. Most viewing platforms are free, no need to fight for photo spots There are no crowded tour groups. You can casually visit the coastal boardwalks and tidal flat viewpoints, quietly enjoy the sea breeze, and soak in the atmosphere. 3. Seafood offers great value with no overcharging Fresh seafood is caught locally on fishing rafts. Food stalls have clear prices. You can enjoy seafood freedom for just a few dozen dollars per person. Seafood lovers must include this in their plans. 📍 Must-visit spots personally tested Yushan Island | Highlight: half ocean, half grassland The biggest surprise of this trip! It’s hard to imagine an island with two natural alpine lakes hidden at the summit, surrounded by tens of thousands of acres of soft meadows. Below your feet is green grassland, and above your eyes is endless blue ocean. The mountain and sea framed together create a stunning and soothing scene. The island’s night sky is clear, and morning mist lingers in the mountains. It’s perfect for an overnight stay to fully unwind. Sandu’ao | Truly a seaside garden Rows of colorful fishing raft houses float on the water like a village drifting on the sea. Take a boat through the rafts, watch fishing boats slowly return to port, and feel the sea breeze carrying a faint salty scent. Quiet and healing. Dongbi Village | Best spot to watch the orange sea sunset A lesser-known colorful fishing village by the sea. Stroll along the cliff boardwalk and wait at dusk as the sunset dyes the entire sea orange. The village is sparsely populated, creating a gentle photo atmosphere, ideal for couples and friends traveling together. Beiqi tidal flats | Ink-wash style coastal sunrise Recommended to get up early! The morning sun spreads over the tidal flats, with fishing boats and bamboo poles sketching soft lines like a flowing ink painting. It’s free and almost empty of visitors in the early morning. Shajiang S Bay | Iconic aerial sea view The bay’s bamboo poles naturally form a beautiful S curve. The coastal viewing platform offers wide views, allowing you to capture stunning sea photos without taking a boat. Taimu Mountain | 5A-rated sea fairy mountain Moderate hiking difficulty, with strange rocks scattered in the mountains and a cliffside walkway leading to the summit. From the top, you can overlook the entire East China Sea. On clear days, clouds roll like waves. The scenery is grand, and it’s easy for both elderly and children to enjoy. 📅 2-day 1-night relaxed itinerary, easy for lazy travelers to copy Day 1: Arrive in Ningde by high-speed train → boat tour of Sandu’ao fishing rafts → visit Jin Shetou for a unique seaside bullet train photo spot → watch the orange sea sunset on Dongbi Village cliff boardwalk, then enjoy fresh seafood at the village food stalls Day 2: Early morning at Beiqi tidal flats for ink-wash sunrise → photo at Shajiang S Bay viewpoint → choose one: visit Yushan Island for mountain-sea grasslands or explore Taimu Mountain → leisurely return 💡 Personal tips to avoid pitfalls 1. Strong UV rays by the sea. High-SPF sunscreen, sun hats, and sunglasses are essential to avoid sunburn. 2. Tidal flats and rocky paths are slippery. Wear non-slip flat shoes. The tail island caves can only be entered at low tide, so check tide times in advance. 3. Ferry tickets for Yushan Island and Sandu’ao are tight during peak season. Book online 1–3 days in advance. 4. For seafood, prioritize local food stalls where locals gather. Fresh and affordable. Avoid overpriced trendy restaurants near scenic spots. 5. To see tidal flat light and shadow and stunning sunsets, choose sunny days. Rain and fog obscure the views. ✨ Travel thoughts Compared to heavily commercialized popular seaside spots, I prefer Ningde’s original tranquility. Here you’ll find the unique “half ocean, half grassland” island wonder, gentle sunsets, ink-wash tidal flats, fresh seafood, and simple fishing village life. If you’re tired of city stress and want a quiet seaside escape, Ningde is definitely the best choice. seaside garden island half ocean half grassland tidal flat guide

Ningde isn’t as crowded as Xiamen or as famous as Quanzhou, but its mountain and sea resources are just as impressive. The sunrise over the tidal flats in Xiapu can bring tears to your eyes. The alpine meadows on Yushan Island feel like stepping into New Zealand. The sea of clouds at Taimu Mountain can vanish in an instant, all depending on luck. Three days and two nights, all for 800 yuan, to show you the best of Ningde. 📌 Xiapu + Taimu Mountain Day 1|Taimu Mountain + Yushan Island Morning|Taimu Mountain (115 yuan ticket includes shuttle) It’s best to enter before 8 AM. Core route: Husband and Wife Peaks → One Line Sky (only one person can pass at a time) → Sea viewing boardwalk The whole route takes 3–4 hours. Jagged rocks and mountain-sea views side by side. Afternoon|Yujing Pier → Yushan Island Buy tickets in advance on the "Yushan Island ferry ticket" WeChat public account. Round trip 115 yuan. Rent an electric scooter to circle the island (20 yuan/hour). Stop by the Fort Coffee for a cup. Wait for sunset at the Datianhu meadow. The windmills and sea views together are very soothing. Overnight|Stay at a guesthouse on Yushan Island. If you’re lucky, you can see the stars. Day 2|Full day on Yushan Island Morning|Light hike at Tianhu Scenic Area Take the sightseeing bus up the mountain after 8 AM (don’t walk, it’s exposed and no views). Only walk the inner loop around the large and small Tianhu meadows; the outer loop isn’t necessary. This is the true highlight of Yushan Island: thousands of acres of meadows plus alpine lakes. Afternoon|Moon Bay Beach + Mazu Village Stroll along the beach and rocks, visit the fishing port in Mazu Village. For dinner, go to Fuyao Restaurant. The stir-fried rice cakes are a must, and the seafood rice noodles are also good. Day 3|Xiapu tidal flats + East Sea Route 1 Morning|Return from the island to Xiapu Daytime|Drive the East Sea Route 1 scenic road Hǎiwěijiǎo blue and white castle → Danwan viewing platform → Dajing Beach Evening|Watch the sunset at Dongbi Village Cliff coast and golden sea surface. Stay at a guesthouse in Dongbi Village and see the view right from your window. 🍜 Food list 👍 Must-try: · Fuding pork slices — chewy, sour, and spicy, Ningde’s soul snack · Large yellow croaker — best steamed fresh, Ningde is China’s capital of large yellow croaker · Oyster omelet — most authentic at the old grandma’s stall on Nanmen Ancient Street · Taro cake — soft and not greasy, perfect for breakfast · Yangzhong mixed noodles — smooth and tangy 💰 Budget reference Average total cost per person: 800–1,200 yuan (3 days) · Accommodation: budget hotels in Jiaocheng District for around 100 yuan, sea view guesthouses in Dongbi Village 200–300 yuan · Tickets: Taimu Mountain 115 + Yushan Island ferry 115 + Tianhu Scenic Area · Food: seafood stalls 60–80 yuan per person, regular snacks 20 yuan per person ⚠️ Tips to avoid trouble · Buy Yushan Island ferry tickets in advance; no tickets on site during peak season · Check the tide schedule before visiting the sea cave on Xiawei Island; only enter at low tide · Dongbi Village is quite commercialized and prices are higher; if that bothers you, stay in Xiapu County town · UV rays are very strong by the sea; bring strong sun protection and sunscreen · Xiapu’s attractions are spread out; self-driving or hiring a car is the most convenient · Don’t wear shorts when camping on Yushan Island; mosquitoes are fierce Wishing everyone a pleasant trip! Stay safe and enjoy exploring the world ☀

Ningde, a hidden gem in Fujian, is a less-traveled mountain and sea city. Get ready for this 3-day, 2-night slow travel guide ✨ No crowds, just mountains, sea, ancient villages, waterfalls, and fishing ports—all in one trip. Day 1: Head to the fishing boats by the sea, enjoy the sea breeze, feed the seagulls, and savor incredibly fresh seafood. Day 2: Venture into the mountains, climb Mount Taimu to see the sea of clouds, and let the clear, healing waters of Jiulongji Stream soothe your mind and body. Day 3: Stroll through the old town streets, and discover authentic eastern Fujian flavors with a bowl of chewy fish balls. Steamed large yellow croaker, fragrant glutinous taro cake, crispy oyster omelet—every bite is a local specialty. Travel tips: Bring plenty of sunscreen for the beach, visit Mount Taimu early for fewer crowds and beautiful scenery, and don't be afraid to bargain for seafood. Escape the city for a weekend and come to Ningde to embrace the gentle mountains and sea. travel short trip and sea hidden gem

Recently, I’ve received many messages asking where to travel in August and September. Today, I’m sharing a guide for the summer-to-autumn transition! 🌍 Temperature, scenery, and crowds all clearly calculated for you~👇 August exclusive — cool and green escapes 🧊 🌟 Ulanqab (Huitengxile Grassland + Huanghuagou) ⏰ Best time: August 🌡️ Average temperature: 18–22℃ 💡 Highlights: Quiet and beautiful hidden grasslands, a more off-the-beaten-path treasure than Hulunbuir! 🌟 Changchun (Jingyuetan + Puppet Manchurian Palace) ⏰ Best time: August 🌡️ Average temperature: 22℃ 💡 Highlights: A city summer retreat, perfect for a light cultural stroll~ 🌟 Yuexi Dabieshan (Anhui) ⏰ Best time: August 🌡️ Average temperature: 23℃ 💡 Highlights: A must for road trip lovers! A cool, quiet summer secret spot 🏞️ September exclusive — autumn check-in spots 🍂 ✨ Jingxi (Guangxi) ⏰ Best time: September 🌡️ Highlights: Tongling Grand Canyon + E Spring, a great alternative to Guilin! Quiet, beautiful, and cool~ ✨ Datong (Shanxi) ⏰ Best time: September 🌡️ Highlights: Yungang Grottoes + ancient city stroll, a rich cultural atmosphere! ✨ Pu’er (Yunnan) ⏰ Best time: September 🌡️ Highlights: Tea mountains + coffee plantations, a niche experience 10 times quieter than Dali ☕ 💥 Not recommended (warning for potential pitfalls) ⚠️ Wanning: Typhoons + intense sun, seeing the sea is pure luck 🌊 ⚠️ Ningde: Both sun and typhoons, Xiapu tidal flats are more beautiful in spring and autumn ⏳ 🏆 Top 3 ultimate picks 🏞️ Grassland lovers → Ulanqab (go in August!) 🌊 Water and mountain lovers → Jingxi (must visit in September) 🏛️ Culture lovers → Datong (absolutely in September) Want a customized 4-day grassland trip in Ulanqab or a 3-day water and mountain trip in Jingxi? Let me know in the comments~👇

In July, don’t just go to the beach to escape the heat. These inland spots offer lower temperatures and surprising scenery. You can reach them within a 2-hour high-speed train ride or spend a week touring northwest China. They have local life, wild mountain charm, and artistic ancient vibes—much more comfortable than crowded beaches. Don’t believe it? Pick one and go—you’ll see how summer can be different. NO.1 Haikou | Hainan At 5 PM, the wind in Haikou finally turns from the sea and blows into the old street. Avoid the arcade at noon—you’ll want to escape the scorching sun. The section near Dongmen Market is covered by a canopy, making it a bit better. ⏰ Go after 6 PM. The old carved decorations on the arcade turn warm yellow, and the shadows stretch long. You can turn into Shuixiangkou Alley, where the oil sizzles and the spicy soup pot lid just lifted, releasing the aroma of Sichuan pepper and black pepper. A bowl costs 10 yuan. Nearby is an old tea shop where a pot of tea costs just a few yuan, and you can sit for an hour. After 8 PM, visit Volcano Crater Park. When the lights come on, the stones seem to glow. ⚠️ Bring enough water if you go during the day. There’s no food for sale on the mountain. NO.2 Ningde | Fujian Between Taimu Mountain and Baishuiyang, I recommend the latter. Taimu Mountain is a spectacular pile of rocks, but climbing the stairs for two hours will tire your legs. Baishuiyang is much easier—wear non-slip sandals, wade through ankle-deep water for 2 km, and kids can play all afternoon. 📍 Beiqi tidal flats are another surprise. Go at 5 AM when the tide is out. The patterns on the flats look like freshly drawn sketches. Set up your camera and wait for sunrise—the light layers in beautifully. ⏰ Don’t go in the afternoon. The sunlight is too harsh, and photos come out washed out. NO.3 Aksu | Xinjiang “Is it hot?”—I wondered the same on day one. But once you enter the mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon, it cools down within two minutes. The rock walls on both sides shoot straight up to the clouds, letting only a narrow strip of sunlight through. Standing at the canyon bottom, you can hear the wind whistle as it passes. ⚠️ Bring a jacket—it’s really cold inside. You can explore in two hours with stops. For photos, go after 3 PM when the light slants into the canyon, turning the rocks reddish brown. 🚄 It’s a 1.5-hour drive from Aksu, and the road is decent. NO.4 Dali | Yunnan At 7 AM, Xizhou Ancient Town is still asleep. Enter through Zhengyi Gate. The stone paths are still wet with dew, and the air smells of toasted rice cakes. 📍 Near the corner tower, a breakfast stall sells 5-yuan rice cakes with brown sugar filling. One bite almost burns your mouth. ⏰ By 9 or 10 AM, tourists flood in, so it’s time to leave for Chongsheng Temple and the Three Pagodas. The area is spacious with plenty of shade. The pagodas look so pristine under the sun, they seem unreal. After 4 PM, head to Erhai Lake. Rent an electric bike from Caicun Pier and feel the wind rush past your ears. At 6 PM, the lights on Nanzhao Style Island come on, and the whole lake looks like spilled blue ink. NO.5 Huangshi | Hubei Chengyue Island sounds cool just by name. It’s located in Cihu Lake and is best visited after 6 PM. ⏰ At 6:30 PM, the sun sets behind the mountains, turning the lake orange. The sky isn’t fully dark yet, and there are few mosquitoes. Walk the boardwalk once. The lake breeze dries your sweat instantly. ⚠️ Don’t wear sandals. The boardwalk has metal seams that get hot. Nearby is a small stall selling fried fish—3 pieces for 10 yuan, crispy outside and tender inside. Perfect to eat by the lake. NO.6 Dongguan | Guangdong Avoid Humen Bridge during the day. The traffic noise is unbearable. ⏰ After 6:30 PM, the bridge lights come on first. The sea under the bridge shimmers like scattered silver flakes. Walk up from Weiyuan Fort—the wind is strong enough to blow your hat off. 📍 At the east end of the bridge is a dessert shop selling double-skin milk pudding for 8 yuan. The ginger flavor is so strong it feels like stepping into a pile of ginger. ⚠️ Don’t drive onto the bridge to take photos. Police are monitoring. NO.7 Tai’an | Shandong If you climb Mount Tai, do it at night. Going during the day is exhausting—over 3,000 steps and the sun makes your forehead sweat. Start at 10 PM from Hongmen Gate, pass Zhongtian Gate, and reach Shibapan. You’ll be gasping like a bellows. ⏰ Arrive at Nantianmen around 4 AM. Find a corner to wait for sunrise. It’s windy, so wear the thick coat rented at the summit—it feels like a quilt. 📍 Don’t descend the same way. Take the route via Houshiwu. It’s less crowded and the scenery is just as good. ⚠️ Bring a flashlight. Your phone battery won’t last to the top. NO.8 Yangzhou | Jiangsu Go to Slender West Lake early. Enter at 7:30 AM when it’s almost empty. The water is shrouded in mist, and the bridges and pavilions appear hazy. Stand at the Twenty-Four Bridge and listen to birds and oars dipping in the water. ⏰ Avoid visiting after 11 AM. Head to Dongguan Street instead. Ge Garden is at the street entrance—take 5 minutes to stroll through. 🍜 In an alley near Heyuan Garden, there’s a stall selling crab roe soup dumplings for 15 yuan a basket. The skin is so thin it’s translucent. You’ll need to blow on each bite for 5 seconds. Go back to Slender West Lake at 3 PM and take a boat under Wuting Bridge. The bridge’s reflection ripples in the water. Among these 8 places, Dali, Tai’an, and Yangzhou are my personal top three. Don’t ask why—you’ll know which suits you best once you visit. Share in the comments which place you want to go to most this summer.

Based on your previous questions about "escaping Jiangsu" and "Ningde," I’ve picked 4 destinations reachable by direct high-speed train that are easy to travel to, suitable for all ages, and not tiring. In August, these places are either cool or have fun family-friendly activities: · -- · 1. Tonglu, Zhejiang (water play and cooling off) High-speed train: from various places in Jiangsu to Tonglu station, about 1.5–2 hours. What to do: Take elders and kids to Luci Village. The creek is right at the village entrance, shallow and clear. Bring a chair to sit in the water and eat watermelon. Young people can try the Yalu rafting for a thrill (minimum height 1.2m). Where to stay: Homestays in Luci Village or Maoping Village, with mountain views right outside the window. Meals included for a hassle-free stay. · 2. Wuyishan, Fujian (cool mountain air and oxygen) High-speed train: Jiangsu to Wuyishan North station, about 3–4 hours. What to do: Take a 1.5-hour bamboo raft ride on the Nine-Bend Creek (not tiring, kids love it), see the hanging coffins and Jade Maiden Peak. Take elders on the Yan Gu Hua Xiang slow trail, mostly flat with plenty of shade. Watch the live show Impression Dahongpao at night. Tip: Bamboo raft tickets are in high demand. Book 7 days in advance on the “China Wuyishan” WeChat official account. · 3. Weihai, Shandong (cool sea views) High-speed train: Jiangsu to Weihai station, about 4–5 hours. What to do: The international seawater bathing beach has fine sand and gentle slopes, perfect for kids to dig in the sand. Rent a four-wheel family bike and ride along the coastal road to Torch 8th Street (fewer people before 9 AM). For tide pooling, go to Jiulong Bay Park—at low tide, you can dig for clams. Average temperature is only 26°C, much cooler than Jiangsu. · 4. Jixi, Anhui (ancient village slow life) High-speed train: Jiangsu to Jixi North station, about 2–2.5 hours. What to do: Visit Renli Village (free) to see old Hui-style houses, take kids to catch fish in the creek at the village entrance. For hiking lovers, walk the highlight section of the Hui-Hang Ancient Trail (from Jiangnan’s first village to Shichating, about 2 hours round trip, easy and flat). Less commercialized, affordable prices, perfect for a 2-night slow visit. · -- Which one to choose? Here’s a 3-second guide: · Want water fun but afraid of sun → Tonglu (cool under the creekside trees) · Elders with limited stamina, want to see mountains and water → Wuyishan (easy bamboo rafting, beautiful scenery) · Kids just want to dig sand and explore the tide → Weihai (clean sea, cool weather) · Want to avoid crowds and truly relax → Jixi (quiet and peaceful) General tips: Book hotels and round-trip tickets early during peak season. Bring sun-protective clothing and mosquito repellent. If going to Weihai, bring a light jacket for the cool sea breeze in the morning and evening. Do you prefer mountains and water or the seaside? Or tell me how many days you plan to travel, and I’ll help you plan a detailed daily itinerary. 😊

Fujian is a land of mountains and sea, with endless forests, serene valleys, and a blend of urban and rural landscapes. This time, let's explore the entire region through gentle hiking, leisurely cycling, and city driving. Wander through vast forests and tea gardens, Danxia mountains, and Hakka villages at a relaxed pace, immersing yourself in the harmonious charm of nature and culture 🍃 🚗 Drive · mountain and sea roads Zhangzhou · Hua'an Shan Ha Xian Dao Road Shrouded in mist, tens of thousands of acres of tea gardens stretch out in layers, She ethnic villages hide within the forest sea, and world heritage tulou rest quietly in the valleys. With an exceptionally high forest coverage rate, this area is a natural oxygen bar. Open the car window and the fresh scent of plants fills the air. Ideal for slow driving or cycling, accompanied by the fragrance of tea and mountain breeze all the way. 🔹 Address: Xian Du Town to Xin Xu Town area, Hua'an County, Zhangzhou City Ningde · Dongchong Peninsula sightseeing road in Xiapu Winding along the mountains and sea, with green hills on one side and rolling blue waves on the other, connecting coastal spots like Gaoluo Beach, Haiwei Castle, Dajing Beach, and Xiawei Island. Beaches, reefs, fishing villages, and bays appear one after another. Supported by Galaxy No. 1 RV park and Danwan viewing platform, it offers an integrated road and scenery experience. 🔹 Address: Dongchong Peninsula, Xiapu County, Ningde City Longyan · Yongding tulou tourism road loop Connecting a series of round tulou, with green tile roofs and earthen walls arranged along the mountains. Rice fields, ancient wells, and farmhouses line the route, showcasing Hakka life everywhere. Cycling or driving here feels like traveling through a corridor of Hakka culture. 🔹 Address: Tulou clusters in Hukeng Town, Gaotou Town, Yongding District, Longyan City 🚴 Slow pace · trails and cycling Xiamen · mountain and sea health trail Yunhai line Starting at Dongdu Cruise Terminal and ending at Guanyin Mountain Dream Beach, linking Huwei Mountain, Xianyue Mountain, Yundang Lake, and Wuyuan Bay—the island’s “eight mountains and three waters.” Combining elevated walkways and ground greenways, shaded by greenery, blending city and nature. Perfect for morning or evening strolls or light jogging, offering different views of Xiamen. 🔹 Address: Siming District and Huli District, Xiamen City (recommended entrances: Hexi Building, Xianyue Park section) Nanping · Wuyi western foothills tea horse scenic route Recreating the thousand-year-old northern Fujian tea route, passing through Zhaile Town and Siqian Township in Guangze County, connecting nine villages and ecological spots like Wuyi Tianchi. Carrying the historical legacy of exporting Gankeng black tea, linking Linglong Valley, the black tea culture museum, and other cultural tourism sites. Tea mountains stretch endlessly, and the ancient road still bears the marks of tea traders. Suitable for cycling or hiking to experience history amid the tea fragrance. 🔹 Address: Zhaile Town and Siqian Township, Guangze County, Nanping City Quanzhou · Penghua three-color scenic road Hiding the gentle charm of mountains and countryside, with green forests, pink flower seas, and yellow fields laid out in sections. Village flower seas, fruit and vegetable farms, and dense woods interweave. Ideal for slow, relaxing trips near the city, suitable for cycling or hiking, breathing in the rural atmosphere. 🔹 Address: Penghua Town, Nan'an City, Quanzhou City Ningde · Zhouning cloud road Passing through high mountain clouds, walking through mist feels like traveling in a fairyland. Zhouning, with an average altitude of 800 meters, is known as the “natural air-conditioned city.” Cycling here lets you hear the roar of Jiulong Waterfall, the largest waterfall in East China, and visit Liyu Creek and Chenqiao ancient village along the way. 🔹 Address: Zhouning County, Ningde City (along Jiulong Waterfall, Xianfeng Mountain, Liyu Creek) ✨ Travel tips Weather reference: Southeast coast occasionally experiences typhoons. Prioritize inland mountains, forests, and city trails for outings. Check the weather forecast before departure and postpone outdoor plans in severe weather. Dressing advice: Temperature varies between day and night in the mountains, so bring a light jacket. Choose comfortable, non-slip sports shoes for hiking and cycling. Mosquitoes are common in the forest, so remember to bring insect repellent. Measure the forest sea with your steps and reach the mountains and fields by wheel. No need to rush the itinerary—slowly encounter the countless beauties hidden in Fujian’s mountains and waters.

01 Shigatse | Tibet Overnight tents at Everest Base Camp were only CNY 150–200 a night at the end of August, more than half the price of peak season. It's windy at Base Camp at 7:00 PM, so remember to put your windbreaker in your backpack before going up. The viewing platform next to Rongbuk Monastery offers the best view; don't crowd the parking area for photos. Tashilhunpo Monastery admission is CNY 80. There are fewer tourists after 5:00 PM, and the sound of copper bells on the kora path can drown out your heartbeat. ⚠️ Don't wear shorts when entering the monastery. Long pants are available for rent at the entrance with a CNY 20 deposit. After visiting the monastery, exit the east gate and walk straight for 200m to find a sweet tea house. Butter tea is CNY 5 a cup, and Tibetan noodles are CNY 12, which is filling. Stay in a hostel bed in the city for CNY 40. Remember to look up at the stars at night; the Milky Way is incredibly clear when the clouds disperse. 02 Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Qilian Mountains are not a single mountain but a collection of grasslands and snow-capped peaks. Take a bus from Xining to Qilian County, a 4-hour ride costing about CNY 70. Once in the county, rent an electric scooter for CNY 60 a day and ride along the Black River Grand Canyon road. The wind will rush past your ears, and the grassy slopes on both sides look like green carpets. The Lenglongling hiking trail is a 3-hour round trip at an altitude of 3,500m. Walk slowly, and don't push yourself if you have bad knees. Amido Somo Scenic Area admission is CNY 45. There are three valleys inside; the easiest is the first one, a 1-hour round trip, where you can see small waterfalls formed by melting glaciers. ⏰ After 2:00 PM, the light hits the ridges at an angle, so you don't need filters for photos. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse in the county town; a standard room is CNY 120, and the owner will draw you a hand-drawn map. 🍜 For dinner, go to the Kangguo Lamb restaurant on the pedestrian street. A small portion is CNY 68, perfect for two people. 03 Jiangmen | Guangdong Don't buy a combo ticket for Kaiping Diaolou; just visiting Zili Village is enough. Admission is CNY 78, including an audio guide. The diaolou clusters are within a 15-minute walk from the village entrance, so you don't need to take the scenic area shuttle bus, saving CNY 20. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM. The morning sun shines on the walls of Mingshi Tower from the east, making the blue brick textures particularly clear. There's a dessert shop in the village, converted from an old house, selling tangerine peel red bean soup for CNY 8 a bowl. Drink it in the courtyard to stay cool. ⚠️ Handmade cookies sold in the village are priced at CNY 25 a pack, but the shop at the end of the village sells them for only CNY 15. After visiting the diaolou, return to Kaiping city for claypot rice. A mixed cured meat claypot is CNY 18, with fragrant crispy rice. If you have more time, visit Chikan Ancient Town along the way. Beef offal noodles under the arcade are CNY 10 a bowl, cheaper than those in the scenic area. 04 Yulin | Guangxi Darongshan National Forest Park admission is CNY 60. Private cars can drive in for an additional CNY 20 per car. The mountain roads are winding, so new drivers should go slowly. It takes 40 minutes from the foot of the mountain to the Lotus Scenic Area. The mountaintop meadow is suitable for picnic mats. It's windy, so bring a light jacket. 🍜 At the mountain entrance, there are aunties selling mugwort glutinous rice cakes for CNY 2 each. They're warm and tastier than the packaged ones from the supermarket downhill. ⚠️ There are no proper restaurants in the scenic area, so bring your own dry food and water. Wonton noodles in the town below the mountain are CNY 6 a bowl; eat before heading up. For accommodation, I recommend the forest cabins halfway up the mountain, CNY 180 a night. In the morning, opening the curtains reveals a sea of clouds, saving two hours of travel time compared to staying in the city. If you're sensitive to noise, bring earplugs, as the cabins' sound insulation is average. 05 Yichun | Heilongjiang Tangwang River Forest and Stone Scenic Area admission is CNY 70, with an additional CNY 15 for the shuttle bus. Actually, it's only 2km from the entrance to the core area, and the path is flat, so you don't need to take the bus. Save that CNY 15 for water. The rocks here are strangely shaped, as if placed randomly. A walk along the boardwalk takes about two hours. ⏰ In September, the coniferous forests start to turn yellow. Sunlight filters through the trees onto the moss, creating a beautiful mix of green and gold. ⚠️ The signal in the scenic area is weak, so download an offline map in advance. Afterward, order a stewed chicken with hazel mushrooms at the small restaurant at the entrance for CNY 48, enough for two. Stay in a hostel bed in Yichun city for CNY 50. At night, go to the night market to buy blueberries for CNY 10 a box, half the price of those in the scenic area. 06 Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Autumn arrives late in the Ili River Valley; the grass is still green in mid-September. Kalajun Grassland admission is CNY 80, and the shuttle bus is CNY 70. You can't save this money because the grassland is too vast to walk. However, you can take only the first section of the shuttle bus to Xianhuatai, then hike 3km towards Lieyingtai, avoiding the need to buy the second ticket. Gongnaisi Grassland has no admission fee. Drive 20km east past Nalati Town, and you can park by the roadside. Herders will charge a CNY 10 parking fee, and the scenery is just as good as in the scenic area. Tuergen Apricot Blossom Valley only blooms in spring; in autumn, there are only bare branches, so don't expect much. 🍜 Handmade ice cream in Yining city is CNY 5 a scoop, with a rich milky flavor, better than the CNY 15 ones at the scenic area entrance. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse in Tekes County; a standard room is CNY 150. The owner is a local and can help you plan shared car routes. 07 Ningde | Fujian Taimu Mountain admission is CNY 100. If you're not very fit, I recommend only walking the section from Yixiantian to Guanheitai, a 1.5-hour round trip, where the scenery is most concentrated. There's a bus from the foot of the mountain directly to the scenic area for CNY 5; don't take illegal taxis that charge CNY 30. Baishuiyang Yuanyangxi admission is CNY 120, but if you enter after 3:00 PM, the crowds are more than halved, and you can see shimmering light on the water. Beiqi Mudflats in Xiapu have no admission fee. ⚠️ When watching the sunrise, remember to check the tide table; the mudflats are only exposed at low tide. At high tide, you can only see the sea. Stay in Xiapu County town; a standard room is CNY 100. Take a taxi to Beiqi at 5:30 AM for CNY 15; drivers all know the best photo spots. 🍜 After watching the sunrise, return to the county town for Guobianhu (pot-side paste) for CNY 6 a bowl, paired with oyster omelet for CNY 15. It's so fresh it'll make your eyebrows fall off. 08 Shizuishan | Ningxia Shahu Lake admission plus boat ticket is CNY 120. This cannot be bought separately, but don't buy grilled fish at the scenic area entrance for CNY 25 a skewer. Take the boat to the snack street on the other side of the lake, where the same item is only CNY 15. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM. The lake is foggy, and the reed marshes look veiled, making for the best photos. After visiting Shahu Lake, return to the city for lamb sazi noodles, CNY 12 a bowl. The noodles are hand-pulled and chewy. ⚠️ The sandboarding activity in the scenic area is CNY 60. Actually, you can sandboard on the dunes outside. Rent a sandboard for CNY 15 and find a slope yourself, saving CNY 45. For accommodation, choose a hotel in Dawukou District; a standard room is CNY 90. It's close to the bus station, making it convenient for going to Yinchuan the next day. Remember to bring a water bottle; a bottle of mineral water in the scenic area costs CNY 8, while outside it's CNY 2. These eight places are most comfortable from late August to September, with fewer crowds and lower prices. If you only have a week's vacation, I personally recommend Yichun and Ningde. One is cool, and the other has plenty of sea breeze, with expenses kept under CNY 2,000. Let's chat in the comments: which one are you most excited about? I'll help you with the route.

When chasing the sea and sunsets in Xiapu, be sure to book this top-rated guesthouse in Dongbi Village✨ Located on the cliff plateau of Dongbi Village, Sansha Town, the staggered white buildings face the sea and are known as the little Santorini of Fujian. You don’t have to travel overseas to enjoy a whole sea of orange waves and romance. Enjoy the prime sunset spot in Xiapu with a 270° direct view of Sansha Bay. Islands stretch into the distance, fishing rafts dot the sea, and fishing boats slowly shuttle back and forth. The golden sunset melts into the horizon, pink and orange evening clouds spread across the sea, and the sound of the tide makes watching the sunset a daily ritual here. The guesthouse consists of multiple independent courtyards divided into mountain and water areas, each courtyard separate for maximum privacy. More than 30 rooms are named after traditional time periods, offering a wide variety of room types from exquisite sea view rooms to loft suites. Large floor-to-ceiling windows frame the entire sea right into the room. You can lie in bed and quietly wait for the sunset to sink into the sea, watching the waves shimmer. Some rooms have private terraces or suspended soaking pools where you can soak in the hot tub, feel the sea breeze on your face, and gaze at the vast evening sky, creating an immersive atmosphere. The interior features a gentle, rustic wabi-sabi style with natural wood furnishings and artistic decor, showing attention to detail. Rooms are fully equipped with high-quality toiletries, comfortable bedding, and welcome fruit, making the stay both delicate and healing. Every corner of the public area is a perfect photo spot📸 🔹 Cliffside infinity pool in the water courtyard The pool seems seamlessly connected to the sea, with white walls and arches paired with clear water. At sunset, the water reflects the colorful sky, making every shot a vacation masterpiece. 🔹 Shiguang restaurant · sea view dining Floor-to-ceiling glass windows face the bay, offering the best sunset view in the village. Enjoy breakfast, main meals, and exquisite sea view afternoon tea here. The menu features local Xiapu mudflat seafood, freshly caught and alive, like scallion oil snails and freshly grilled small yellow croaker, letting you savor the ocean’s fresh sweetness with the sunset for a fully romantic dining experience. 🔹 Shiguang book bar & tatami tea room If you’re tired from traveling, come relax in the book bar. Bask in the sunlight streaming through the windows, read a book, sip tea, and listen to the waves outside, escaping the crowds to enjoy peaceful seaside moments. 🔹 Terrace bar & sea view swing Order a special cocktail at dusk, sit on the terrace and feel the sea breeze while watching fishing boats return to port. After sunset, the night falls and you can look up to see a clear, star-filled sky. Thoughtful butler service is available throughout your stay, handling luggage storage, travel route advice, and village transportation arrangements. The location is unbeatable and very convenient for travel: a few minutes’ walk to Dongbi sunset viewing platform and Sansha light trail; a 15-minute drive to Huazhu sunrise and Xiaohao mudflats, making it super easy to visit classic Xiapu photography spots. Whether for a romantic couple’s getaway, a trip with friends, or photography excursions, this is the top choice for accommodation in Xiapu. Stay at Shijianhai, listen to the tide in the morning and watch the sunset in the evening, and capture the unique mountain, sea, and fishing village romance of Xiapu in every moment of your journey🌊

📍 Ningde 🚄 High-speed rail directly to Ningde Station ✨ Itinerary highlights Xiapu Mudflats: Watch the golden sunset at Dongbi Village, where fishing boat silhouettes are incredibly therapeutic and the scenery is stunning even without filters. Mount Taimu: The Immortal Capital on the Sea. Walk through One-Line Sky and admire the Cliffside Bronze Temple. The scenery, with mountains and sea in one frame, is a rare sight. Xiawei Island: A sea cave forms a natural frame. It's only accessible at low tide, and wearing light-colored clothes makes for great photos. 🗓️ Itinerary Day 1: Arrive > Watch the sunset at Dongbi Village, Xiapu > Enjoy seafood at Taikang Road food stalls Day 2: Xiawei Island sea cave > Explore Ming and Qing old streets and watch intangible cultural heritage lion dance performances in Huotong Ancient Town Day 3: Half-day trip to Mount Taimu > Return in the afternoon 🍜 Food recommendations Fuding roupian (meat slices), Xiapu fish balls, oyster omelet, freshly prepared seafood at Taikang Road food stalls ⚠️ Travel tips Attractions are spread out, so it's recommended to rent a car for self-driving, costing around CNY 150 per day. Coastal reefs can be slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. 📍 Qingyang 🚄 High-speed rail directly to Qingyang Station ✨ Itinerary highlights Qingzhou Ancient City: Northern Song Dynasty rammed earth city walls, Goose Pond Cave. The entire ancient city is stunning when lit up at night. Beishiku Temple: Northern Wei Buddha statues are taller than a four-story building, predating the Mogao Grottoes, with very few tourists. Grand Canyon: The unique Danxia landform of the Loess Plateau, where any photo can be a wallpaper. 🗓️ Itinerary Day 1: Arrive > Explore the East Gate ruins and Yaowangdong Health Town in Qingzhou Ancient City > Wait for the night view and water screen movie Day 2: Beishiku Temple > Travel through Dongzhiyuan, "the first loess plateau in the world" Day 3: Visit the Grand Canyon > Return 🍜 Food recommendations Tu Nuan Guo (earthen pot slow-cooked with charcoal), clear lamb soup, he le mian (buckwheat noodles), Huanxian lamb ⚠️ Travel tips There's a large temperature difference between morning and evening, so bring a light jacket. There are many flagstone paths in the ancient city, so wear comfortable shoes. 📍 Shaowu 🚄 High-speed rail to Nanping Station, then a 30-minute bus ride to Shaowu ✨ Itinerary highlights Heping Ancient Town: Founded in the Tang Dynasty, "Fujian's First Street" is 600 meters long, with indigenous residents living there for generations. No admission fee. Heping Academy: Fujian's oldest existing ancient academy, which produced 137 imperial scholars, features exquisite wood carvings. Nanmen Qiaolou (South Gate Watchtower): A Ming Dynasty rammed earth city gate. Climb up to overlook the entire area of dark-tiled ancient houses. It's beautiful at sunset. 🗓️ Itinerary Day 1: Arrive > Climb the watchtower in Heping Ancient Town > Explore Fujian's First Street and tofu workshops Day 2: Heping Academy > Huangshi Daifudi (Huang Family Mansion) > Wander through alleys to visit indigenous courtyards Day 3: Zhongshan Road old street area in the city > Enjoy the night view from Fuyin Pavilion > Return 🍜 Food recommendations Youjiang tofu (CNY 5 per bowl), baozi (stuffed glutinous rice cake), jiaozhangzi (foot-shaped glutinous rice cake), Shaowu mixed noodles ⚠️ Travel tips The main street of the ancient town is free. A combined ticket for ancient buildings costs CNY 50. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons, and the ancient castle is great for photos in the morning mist.

Escape the crowds and see a different side of eastern Fujian Tired of the crowds in Pingtan and Xiamen😮‍💨? Try turning your attention to Ningde! Here, the deep blue sea, magical reef tidal flats, lively ancient villages, and stunning peaks and sea clouds are all bundled together🎁. It’s low on commercialization, free from overhyped internet packaging, affordable, and full of free photo spots📸. Whether you want to relax alone, travel with friends, or go on a photography trip, it’s perfect. Spend 3 days and 2 nights at a slow pace, fully immersing yourself in the unique mountain and sea atmosphere of eastern Fujian💙. 💰Estimated budget per person: 720–880 CNY 🚞Travel tips: Take the high-speed train to Xiapu Station or Ningde Station🚄. Attractions are spread out, so self-driving is the most comfortable option; you can also hire a car or rent an electric scooter for short trips. 🗓️Relaxed 3-day itinerary Day 1🌅 Head to the coastline|reef caves + orange sea sunset Xiawei Island 🪨 A popular sea-eroded cave with crystal-clear water and an incredible reef cave atmosphere💎. 💡Don’t just check out the cave; the nearby coastal reefs are also very photogenic. After the tide recedes, you can spot small seafood in the reef crevices.⚠️Be sure to check tide times❗ Entering the cave is strictly prohibited at high tide for safety. Donghai No. 1 Coastal Road🛣️ A scenic road along the coastline featuring the blue sea, fishing villages, and cliffs in succession🌊. No need to rush to all viewpoints—pick one to stop, enjoy the sea breeze, and relax. It’s more enjoyable than rushing through. Dongbi Village🌇 Widely recognized as the best sunset spot in Xiapu. At dusk, the setting sun turns the sea a warm orange, with fishing boats dotting the water, creating an amazing atmosphere. 🏨Accommodation: Recommended to stay in Dongbi Village or Sansha Town, where many sea view guesthouses let you see the ocean right from your bed. 🦞Food: Local seafood stalls favored by locals, fresh and affordable seafood caught on the spot. Steamed small seafood is highly recommended. Day 2🏮Step into a timeless ancient village|old streets and local life + yellow wine village Huotong Ancient Town🏡 A living thousand-year-old village without mass-renovated faux ancient buildings. Locals still live here. The old bluestone street runs alongside the flowing Huotong Creek, full of everyday life. 💡For the best experience, visit early morning when there are few tourists. You can see locals doing their daily routines like market shopping and laundry. From Tuesday to Sunday, you can watch the intangible cultural heritage Huotong lion dance performance. 🎫The ancient town is free to enter. The lion dance requires a ticket. 🍜Local snacks: Huotong meatballs, large intestine rice rolls, crispy Guangbing flatbread—affordable and delicious. Beiqian Yellow Wine Village🍶 The famous birthplace of red yeast yellow wine, with a faint wine aroma throughout the village. You can visit old workshops to see the century-old brewing process, and if you’re lucky, catch a traditional puppet show. Special treats✅ yellow wine milk tea, wine lees taro noodles—unique flavors worth trying. 🏨Accommodation: Guesthouses by Huotong Creek, where at night you hear only the creek and insects, peaceful and healing. Day 3☁️Explore the sea mountain wonder|hiking with sea views + amazing local snacks Taimu Mountain⛰️ Known as the “sea mountain fairyland,” with strange peaks, deep caves, and views of the vast East China Sea from the summit. The “One Line Sky” and the suspended copper hall are iconic spots. 💡No need to visit all attractions. Choose selectively if your energy is limited. The mountain is most beautiful when clouds and mist rise. Remember to wear comfortable, non-slip shoes. 🎫Tickets plus shuttle bus cost about 115 CNY. Plan 3–4 hours for the visit. Tongshan Xixi Snack Street🍢 A local favorite food spot with little internet hype or price inflation. You can explore confidently without missing out. Must-try✨ Fuding pork slices, honey-glazed chicken wings, bouncy beef meatballs, white tea taro balls. 🎁Souvenirs to pick: Fuding white tea🍵, She ethnic black rice, frosted taro, all vacuum-packed for easy travel. ✨Practical tips to avoid pitfalls 🔸Tidal flat scenery depends heavily on tides🌊. Check tide tables before you go. The biggest tide differences are on the 1st and 15th of the lunar month, which is best for photos. 🔸Safety first on Xiawei Island. Never approach caves at high tide. 🔸Strong UV rays by the sea. Bring sunscreen and a hat. 🔸Travel on weekdays for fewer tourists and a more private mountain and sea experience. Ningde’s beauty is more than just the popular tidal flat photos online📷. It’s the shimmering waves between caves🌊, the gentle sunset spreading across the sea, the slow-paced life in ancient villages, and the ever-changing sea clouds of Taimu Mountain. If you want to escape the city noise, this is the perfect place to stay a few days💫.

Autumn has arrived in Pingnan! 🍂 I’ve discovered this ultra-hidden gem ~ Ancient buildings under blue skies and white clouds paired with orange trees make for an unbelievably beautiful scene! ✨ 🌟 With light and shadow intertwined Every snap is a masterpiece 📸 Gray bricks and black tiles meet golden oranges and red maples It’s like stepping into a historical film scene Truly stunning!! 📍 Must-visit spots: 1. Best photo spot in the orange grove 🍊 Sunlight filters through dappled shadows With rolling green mountains in the distance It’s a natural photo studio!! 2. Ancient building complex 🏯 Charming traditional Chinese architecture Set against golden rice fields in the foreground The autumn atmosphere is instantly elevated 💯 🕒 Best time to visit: Mid-October to early November every year The double bonus of ripe oranges and changing autumn leaves Absolutely breathtaking~ 📝 Travel tips: ✔️ Wearing solid colors makes photos stand out more ✔️ Overcast and rainy days also have a charming Jiangnan vibe ✔️ Remember to bring a power bank to keep snapping nonstop