4 Underrated Destinations Perfect for a May Getaway

Late spring and early summer in May offer pleasant weather, making it the perfect time to travel! Want to avoid the crowds at popular attractions? Then check out these four underrated gems, easily accessible by high-speed rail, for a unique travel experience. Ya'an, Sichuan 🌟Highlights: Known as the "Rain City," Ya'an is favored by clouds and mist, imbued with the serene charm of western Sichuan. Its mountains, forests, and ancient towns exude endless poetic beauty. ✅Must-sees: Mengding Mountain, a thousand-year-old tea mountain with rolling hills. Take a cable car up the mountain for a bird's-eye view of the lush tea plantations. You can also participate in tea picking and tea making, immersing yourself in the charm of tea culture. Bifeng Gorge, a deep canyon with cascading waterfalls, is home to a giant panda base where the adorable "round rolls" will melt your heart. 📸Photo Spots: Shangli Ancient Town, with its picturesque arrangement of ancient bridges, trees, and memorial archways. Capture retro-style photos against the backdrop of mottled ancient walls, bathed in the warm spring sun. 🍜Culinary Delights: Ya'an Tantan Noodles, chewy noodles with flavorful minced meat sauce, offering a satisfying bite. Also, try Shimian barbecue, grilled on a unique iron plate and paired with special dipping sauces, a true feast for your taste buds. 🚗Transportation: Ya'an High-Speed Railway Station. After exiting the station, take a special tourist line or a taxi to reach the scenic spots conveniently. Kaili, Guizhou 🌟Highlights: Rich ethnic customs and colorful Miao culture, like opening a mysterious box of ethnic charm. ✅Must-sees: Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village, where cascading stilt houses dot the mountains. As dusk falls, the lights of a thousand homes twinkle like stars, a truly breathtaking sight. Langde Miao Village, where you can experience authentic Miao song and dance performances, participate in the lively Lusheng Festival, and dance with the Miao people. 💡Cultural Experiences: Learn Miao silver jewelry making and create your own unique piece. Participate in a traditional Miao long-table banquet, savoring local delicacies like sour soup fish and pickled fish, and experience the warm hospitality of the Miao people. 🍵Specialty Drink: Sour plum soup, readily available on the streets of Kaili. Sweet and sour, it's a refreshing and appetizing drink, perfect for revitalizing yourself after a long walk. 🚗Transportation: Kaili South High-Speed Railway Station. Direct buses to the scenic spots are available, allowing you to enjoy the picturesque scenery of Guizhou along the way. Beihai, Guangxi 🌟Highlights: Sun, sand, and waves make Beihai the perfect seaside getaway, washing away all fatigue and worries. ✅Must-sees: Beihai Silver Beach, with its fine, white sand that shimmers under the sun. Stroll barefoot along the shore, feeling the gentle caress of the waves, pure bliss. Weizhou Island, China's largest and youngest volcanic island. Watch the sunrise at Colorful Beach, admire the sunset at Dishuidanping, and explore volcanic relics at the Crater Geological Park. 📸Photo Spots: Beihai Old Street, with its Chinese-Western-style arcade buildings. The mottled walls whisper stories of bygone eras. Dress in retro attire and capture stunning photos with a Republican-era vibe. 🍤Seafood Feast: Steamed fish, tender and flavorful, preserving the original taste. Pepper and salt mantis shrimp, crispy on the outside and firm on the inside. Indulge in a wide variety of fresh seafood. 🚗Transportation: Beihai High-Speed Railway Station. Taxis are readily available to Silver Beach. To reach Weizhou Island, take a ferry from the International Passenger Terminal. Huai'an, Jiangsu 🌟Highlights: Rich history, with the Grand Canal flowing through the city, a blend of ancient and modern, full of life and energy. ✅Must-sees: Zhou Enlai's Former Residence, where you can learn about the life of the great leader and experience the influence of Red culture. Hongze Lake, vast and boundless, with breathtaking scenery. Take a boat trip on the lake, watch the birds soar, and admire the swaying reeds. 🔥Hidden Gems: Hexia Ancient Town, with its well-preserved ancient streets and alleys. Explore the former residences of salt merchants and discover countless stories of famous figures. In spring, the ancient town's walls are adorned with climbing roses, creating a romantic atmosphere. 🍜Culinary Delights: Soft-pocket eel, tender and smooth, coated in a rich sauce, melts in your mouth. Pingqiao tofu, delicate and soft, with a delicious broth, you won't be able to resist having more. 🚗Transportation: Huai'an East High-Speed Railway Station. City buses provide convenient access to major attractions. 💡【May Travel Tips】 🎫Ticketing Advice: Book high-speed rail tickets 1-2 weeks in advance. Due to high travel demand in May, planning ahead ensures you get your preferred train and seat. 👚Clothing Guide: Temperatures rise gradually in May, but there can still be a temperature difference between day and night. Pack light jackets, sun protection clothing, short sleeves, and shorts for layering. Remember to wear comfortable athletic shoes for long walks. 💰Budget Planning: These cities offer moderate consumption levels. Accommodation ranges from CNY 150-300 per person per night. A daily budget of around CNY 400 for dining and activities will ensure a fulfilling and enjoyable trip.