Longnan travel guide and discussion

Hi everyone! I'm a recent university graduate living in Fukuoka 🌸 I actually went to a place called "Wanxia Lake" in China's Gansu Province for my graduation trip, and it was so incredible that I just had to share it with you all! I always imagined Gansu Province as being desert-like and dry, but this place felt like a true "water village" filled with lush greenery and water. What’s even better? Despite being a nationally designated tourist destination, there’s [No Entrance Fee]! As someone who can't resist a good deal, I was absolutely thrilled. Lol. There are walking trails around the massive lake, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll in the breeze. As I walked, I couldn't help but think, "Oh, I wish I could've brought my pup 🐶 back home in Fukuoka so we could run around here together!" I’m currently dealing with some serious "pet withdrawal" (?)—to the point where I'm scrolling through cute animal videos even while on vacation—but wanting to bring your dog every time you see a wide-open space is such a classic pet owner move, isn't it? The absolute must-see here, though, is the [Sunset]! In the evening, the entire lake is bathed in shades of orange and gold, and the distant mountains seem to blend right into the water. It was so breathtakingly beautiful that I was truly at a loss for words... It completely washed away all the stress from my thesis and the chaos of moving into a new phase of life ✨ I highly recommend walking along the retro wooden bridge that spans the lake; taking silhouette shots against the sunset makes for some seriously "aesthetic" photos! And of course, travel isn't complete without the local food! I tried the local "Ganzimian" (hand-pressed noodles), and even as someone from Fukuoka who's a bit of a noodle snob (lol), I was impressed. The noodles had a great chew and paired perfectly with the spicy broth! I also tried these chewy, dumpling-like treats made from mashed potatoes—they had such a simple, comforting flavor. To get there, it’s just a 10-minute taxi ride from the nearby town of Xihe. It only costs about 10 yuan (a little over 200 yen, or roughly $1.40 USD). Staying in the local town was great too—hotels were affordable, and I felt very safe. It was truly a wonderful hidden gem where nature and the gentle sunset recharged my soul! Where is the most breathtaking sunset you've ever seen? Let me know in the comments below! 👇

So here's the thing — I didn't plan to visit Kangxian Huaqiao Village. I was driving through Longnan for the Yangba Meiyuan Ravine and got lost. GPS died. Road signs were in dialect. I turned down a random lane hoping for gas and ended up in what might be the prettiest village I've ever seen in my life. Huaqiao sits in Kang County, tucked into green hills with terraced tea fields rolling up the slopes. It's one of those "beautiful countryside" model villages that got national attention — but honestly? It earned every bit of it. White-walled houses with gray tile roofs, wooden bridges over lotus ponds, wildflowers literally growing out of stone walls. The whole place feels like someone painted it and then decided to live inside the painting. The village has been renovated carefully — not overdone like some tourist traps. You've got homestays, tea-picking experiences, and a tiny museum showing old farming tools. There's a covered bridge over a stream where locals actually hang out and chat in the evenings. Here's my story. I was wandering around the lotus pond at golden hour when this middle-aged woman invited me into her courtyard for tea. No menu. No price list. Just "sit, drink." She roasted the leaves herself — Longnan longjing green tea, apparently famous locally — and poured it into these tiny cups while telling me about her son who moved to Lanzhou for work. She said, "He calls every week but I tell him, come home, the mountain is greener than the city." She smiled, refilled my cup three times, and sent me off with a bag of dried tea. I still have it. I drink it slowly. Practical stuff: entry is free — yeah, free. Best months are April through October when everything's blooming. Stay overnight if you can; the homestays run about 150-200 yuan and it's worth waking up to mountain fog. Drive from Longnan city takes an hour. Eat the local kanzha — a fried dough snack — from the street aunties near the bridge. It's stupidly good. Now here's my question for you all: have you ever accidentally found somewhere better than what you actually planned to visit? Like your whole trip pivoted because of a wrong turn? I feel like those trips always end up being the best ones. Tell me yours — I want the messy, unplanned, "I ended up in the middle of nowhere" stories. Go. #travelersvoice #chinatravelcircle

Starting from Longnan city, driving south for less than two hours, the mountains outside the window grow greener and the air more humid. Turning into Guaneigou, the scene before me stunned me—emerald-colored lakes nestled between canyons, waterfalls pouring down from heights, and mist spraying in the face. Guaneigou is called the “Little Jiuzhaigou,” but it’s more off-the-beaten-path and more pristine than Jiuzhaigou. Emerald lakes, cascading waterfalls, primeval forests, canyon streams—everything is here. The average summer temperature is 22°C, the forest canopy shades the sky, and the canyon is cool and comfortable. The key is—there’s almost no commercialization. The first stop is Eman Valley. The water of Emerald Lake is unbelievably green, like a whole piece of jade embedded in the valley. Crescent Lake and Pearl Lake connect in a line, with crystal-clear water reflecting blue skies, white clouds, and mountains. Any photo taken by the lake is wallpaper-worthy. On the second day, we entered the main Guaneigou valley. Ancient trees tower in the primeval forest, vines entwine, and the air is full of negative oxygen ions. Walking along the trail, you’ll find Longtan Waterfall, Hukou Waterfall, Rainbow Waterfall—more than a dozen waterfalls in various forms. Standing beneath a waterfall, the spray splashes on your face, and the chill penetrates from skin to bone. In the evening, walking to the alpine meadow, endless green grass stretches out, dotted with wildflowers. At sunset, the entire meadow is dyed golden. On the third day, we visited Dangchang Ancient Town. Without the bustle of Fenghuang or the romantic tags of Lijiang, the old streets and alleys are full of local life. At a handicraft shop, I experienced intangible cultural heritage crafts. The owner said few people come to Guaneigou, but those who do always come back. 🚄 How to get there? Take the high-speed train to Longnan Station, then charter a car or drive to Guaneigou Scenic Area (about 1.5 hours). Driving from Lanzhou takes about 4.5 hours. The scenic area is divided into two lines: Guanzhu Valley and Eman Valley (east and west lines). Self-driving or chartering is recommended for flexibility. 🎫 Ticket Information Guaneigou Scenic Area (Guanzhu Valley + Eman Valley) uses a combined ticket system: full ticket 150 RMB/person (includes admission, sightseeing bus, insurance); half ticket 110 RMB/person; free ticket 70 RMB/person (includes sightseeing bus + insurance). Valid for two days, enough for an in-depth visit. 🗺️ 3 Days 2 Nights In-Depth Guaneigou Itinerary Day 1: Longnan → Eman Valley Arrive at Guaneigou Scenic Area in the afternoon, first explore Eman Valley (east line). Emerald Lake, Crescent Lake, and Pearl Lake connect in a line, with crystal-clear green water. Watch the sunset filtering through the forest, golden light spilling on the lake surface. Stay overnight at a nearby farmhouse guesthouse (120-200 RMB/night), with green views from the window. Day 2: Guanzhu Valley All Day Spend the whole day in Guanzhu Valley (west line). Hike through the primeval forest → visit the waterfall clusters (Longtan Waterfall, Hukou Waterfall, Rainbow Waterfall, and more than ten others) → in the evening, hike to the alpine meadow, with endless green grass and wildflowers, the sunset turning the meadow golden. Day 3: Dangchang Ancient Town + Return In the morning, explore Dangchang Ancient Town, with quaint buildings arranged neatly and old streets full of local life. Experience local handicrafts (about 30 RMB/person). Return in the afternoon. 🏠 Accommodation Recommendations Farmhouse guesthouses near the scenic area: 120-200 RMB/night; hotels in Dangchang County: 150-300 RMB/night. 📸 Photo Spots Low-angle shots by the shore of Emerald Lake capturing the green water reflecting blue sky and white clouds; hiking in Eman Valley canyon with streams flowing over black rocks; upward shots of waterfalls with splashing water sparkling in sunlight; alpine meadow sunset with golden light on green grass and wildflowers. 💡 A Few Tips Guaneigou’s summer average temperature is 22°C, cooler inside the canyon, bring a light jacket The combined ticket is valid for two days, allowing ample time for deep exploration There are many trails and steps in the scenic area, wear non-slip hiking shoes Local farmhouse meals cost about 40 RMB per person, featuring dishes like free-range chicken stewed with mushrooms and stir-fried wild vegetables with meat

Let me set the scene. I'm standing in northwest Gansu — the dusty, wind-blasted Gansu — and suddenly I'm surrounded by bamboo, dripping moss, and a ravine so green it looks fake. Welcome to Longnan Yangba Meiyuan Ravine, Kang County. This place shouldn't exist. And yet here I was, jaw on the floor, boots sinking into mud that smelled like rainforest. Yangba sits in the far southeast corner of Longnan where the Qinling mountains trap moisture like a giant greenhouse. The Meiyuan Ravine cuts through it all — a narrow, wild gorge with plum trees, ferns, and streams that somehow survive at altitude. It's like someone took a slice of Yunnan and stapled it onto Gansu. I showed up in mid-April on a whim. No hotel booked. No real plan. Just me, a backpack, and a desire to escape Lanzhou's gray sky. The ravine trail is roughly 8 km and takes about 3-4 hours if you stop every five minutes to stare — which I did. The walls close in tight, light filtering through canopy in these golden shafts. Petals from wild plum trees just drifted down silently into the stream below. Here's the moment I can't shake. I was sitting on a fallen log over the creek, eating cold instant noodles — glamorous, I know — when this tiny grandma appeared from nowhere. She had a basket of wild strawberries she'd picked that morning. She sat next to me without a word, handed me a handful, and just watched the water. We sat like that for ten minutes. Then she stood up, patted my shoulder, and vanished back into the trees. I still think about her every time I eat strawberries. Real talk for planning: entry's about 40 yuan. Go early morning — the ravine stays cool and misty until noon, then it gets humid fast. Waterproof shoes are non-negotiable. Pack snacks; the food stalls outside are basic but the local walnut cakes slap. Drive from Lanzhou takes about 5 hours, or fly into Longnan Chengzhou Airport and rent a car. Big question for everyone: what's the most unexpectedly beautiful place you've ever stumbled into — the kind of spot that makes you rethink everything you thought you knew about a region? Drop it below. I'm collecting these like trading cards. #travelersvoice #chinatravelcircle

Escape Xi'an's summer heat this Dragon Boat Festival! Drive about 4 hours straight to Longnan's secret realm 🌿 with an average summer temperature of 22°C across the region. Leave behind the city's high heat and crowds. A 3-day, 2-night short trip requires no extra leave. Check off cliffs, alpine meadows, lakes, and canyons all at once. Self-driving enthusiasts, save this magical route now! ✨ Four Great Reasons to Choose Longnan ✔️ Naturally cool summer retreat with comfortable temperatures during Dragon Boat Festival, avoiding the stifling heat ✔️ Avoid crowded spots like Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong; enjoy pristine natural scenery with fewer people ✔️ Rich and varied landforms including cliffs, meadows, lakes, and canyons all in one place ✔️ Perfect for short self-drive trips from Xi'an, combining natural beauty and authentic local snacks ⛰️ Four Must-Visit Highlights ▪️ Chela Grand Cliff A lesser-known geological wonder in Longnan, towering cliff walls stand in a continuous line, with deep ravines creating a majestic scene. The unique rock textures look cinematic straight out of the camera—an essential spot for photography lovers. ▪️ Qianba Pasture Known as the "Little Gannan of Longnan," this alpine meadow sits over 2,000 meters high. Cows and sheep roam leisurely, scattered yurts dot the landscape, and on clear days, you can encounter sea of clouds in the mountains, capturing soothing grassland vibes with every shot. ▪️ Wen County Tianchi Lake A rare high-altitude landslide dam lake with emerald-clear waters like sapphires, surrounded by mountains. Take a boat tour around the lake to fully immerse in the secluded mountain water atmosphere. ▪️ Yulei Grand Canyon Also called the "Little Three Gorges of Longnan," drive along the Bailong River with rushing waters on one side and continuous karst cliffs on the other, offering ever-changing scenic views along the way. 📆 Streamlined 3-Day, 2-Night Self-Drive Itinerary Day 1: Depart Xi'an → Arrive Wudu → Stroll Qianba Pasture → Evening visit Jiezou Night Market for snacks Day 2: Wudu → Boat on Wen County Tianchi Lake → Self-drive along Yulei Grand Canyon → Stay overnight in Dangchang Day 3: Visit Chela Grand Cliff in Dangchang → Return to Xi'an full of beautiful memories 💎 Practical Travel Tips ▪️ Road conditions: Suitable for regular cars and SUVs; slow down on winding mountain roads ▪️ Clothing: Large temperature differences between day and night in the mountains; bring sun protection, light jackets, non-slip shoes, and portable rain gear ▪️ Essentials: Motion sickness medicine and power banks recommended; download offline maps in advance to avoid no signal in mountain areas ▪️ Food: Must-try Jiezou Night Market specialties include mashed potatoes, local noodles, and unique barbecue ▪️ Reminder: Qianba Pasture is at high altitude; avoid strenuous running and stay safe while exploring If you don’t want to squeeze into popular spots this Dragon Boat Festival, head to 22°C Longnan for fresh air and cool relief! A 3-day short trip is just right—grab your self-driving buddy and set off⛰️

【Introduction】: Overview of recommended itinerary features (geographical location / famous characteristics / related legends, etc.) Diverse landscapes: grasslands, lakes, stone forests, wetlands, snow-capped mountains, Tibetan villages—scenery at every step. Rich culture: Tibetan Buddhism, ancient temples over a thousand years old, simple folk customs, immersive experiences. Altitude friendly: average 3000 meters, low risk of altitude sickness, suitable for families with children and elderly. Comfortable roads: fully paved asphalt roads, accessible by sedan, easy for self-driving. Season friendly: lush flower seas from June to August, brilliant golden autumn from September to October. 🛬【Itinerary】: Suggested travel time, days, order, and schedule ✈️D1: Arrive in Lanzhou, the Golden City, from all over the country; private transfer from airport/station; enjoy the hundred-mile Yellow River scenery and savor Northwest specialties; overnight in Lanzhou. 🚌D2: Depart Lanzhou to explore Bingling Temple Grottoes with thousand-year Buddhist charm; visit the solemn nine-story Mila Ri Ba Buddha Pavilion; arrive at Linxia City in the evening; overnight in Linxia. 🚌D3: Depart Linxia to delve into the secret stone city of Zhagana; stay in a Tibetan village in the clouds, sleep with the mountains; overnight in Zhagana. 🚌D4: Depart Zhagana to admire the clear flower lake of Ruoergai; watch the sunset over the nine bends of the Yellow River; overnight in Tangke. 🚌D5: Explore the sacred mountains of Lianbaoyeze; pay respects at Gemo Monastery’s Buddha light; overnight in Aba. 🚌D6: Visit the watery charm of Awancang Wetland; turn to Ningma Monastery’s giant prayer wheels; seek tranquility at Langmu Temple; overnight in Langmu Temple. 🚌D7: Enjoy the clear waters of Gahai Lake; view the vast Guomang Wetland; pilgrimage to Labrang Monastery; overnight in Xiahe. ✈️D8: Return from Xiahe, passing Liujiasha’s high gorge and flat lake; private transfer to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport/station; perfect conclusion. ⛺【Must-See Attractions】: Introduction to must-visit spots and reasons 1. Labrang Monastery: One of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, known as the "World Tibetan Academy," featuring an ultra-long prayer wheel corridor (3.5KM) with over 1700 prayer wheels, creating a deeply devout atmosphere. 2. Langmu Temple: The "Little Switzerland of the East," a town spanning Gansu and Sichuan provinces, with the Bailong River running through; Gansu’s Saichi Monastery and Sichuan’s Gerd Monastery face each other; a blend of canyon, forest, and temples. 3. Gemo Monastery: Houses China’s indoor Maitreya Buddha statue, solemn and impressive, with magnificent architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. 4. Zhagana "Stone Box": Listed among China National Geographic’s "Top Ten Famous Peaks," stone peaks surround the Tibetan village, offering three wonders: morning mist, sunrise, and starry sky. 5. Lianbaoyeze: The "Devil’s Sacred Mountain" with strange peaks, bizarre stones, glaciers, and lakes; snow mountain reflections create a magical world; a paradise for photography and hiking. 6. Awancang Wetland: The most beautiful wetland in the upper reaches of the Yellow River, with rivers like the veins of the earth. Spin prayer wheels at Labrang Monastery, watch mist at Zhagana, explore the magical realm of Lianbaoyeze, birdwatch at Gahai Lake, watch sunset at the Yellow River’s nine bends, seek tranquility at Langmu Temple, horseback ride on the grasslands—culture and nature all in one. 🍩【Must-Try Foods】: Introduction to must-taste dishes and reasons 1. Hand-pulled lamb: Gannan grassland lamb, tender meat. 2. Tibetan buns: paper-thin skin, juicy filling, pure beef stuffing. 3. Jue Ma pork: a unique Gannan breed, non-greasy, crispy skin, fragrant meat, low fat, unique taste. 4. Tsampa: staple Tibetan food. Roasted highland barley flour mixed with butter, high energy and altitude sickness resistance. 5. Jue Ma rice: rice mixed with Jue Ma, butter, and sugar, sweet but not greasy. 6. Specialty yogurt: fermented pure milk, thick texture, eaten with sugar, sweet and sour rich flavor, helps digestion and relieves greasiness. 7. Butter tea: the soul of Tibetan cuisine, salty and rich, a cold-weather essential, available in sweet and salty versions. 8. Highland barley wine: pure grain brew from plateau barley, mildly sweet and mellow, low alcohol content. 🚌【Transportation Tips】: Recommended transportation methods and routes Self-driving, chartered car, rental car. 🧡【Tips】: Other friendly reminders Recommended travel time: Best from late June to late September each year. 🚗 Traffic and road conditions (safety first) 1. Complex roads, avoid fatigue driving: many mountain roads, sharp turns, high altitude; novice drivers should be cautious. Recommend rotating drivers and avoid night driving if possible. 2. Monitor weather and roads: Gannan weather is changeable; mountain areas often have temporary road repairs, rockfalls, or snow closures. Check latest road conditions before departure; bring bottled water and dry food for emergencies. 3. Fuel and supplies: Many gas stations in county towns along the way, but remote areas like Zhagana and Lianbaoyeze have no gas stations inside; always fill the tank fully. 🧘 Respect and etiquette (when in Rome) 1. Temple rules: No photography or loud noise inside main halls. Prayer wheels must be turned clockwise, a fundamental respect in Tibetan belief. 2. Ask before photographing people: Especially monks, local Tibetans, and village residents; politely ask first to avoid disputes. 3. Do not touch children’s heads: In Tibetan areas, touching children’s heads casually is considered impolite. 🎒 Pre-trip gear (for the plateau) 1. Layered clothing: Large temperature difference day and night (10-15℃); never bring only one piece of clothing. Recommend "onion-style" dressing: short sleeve/long sleeve + fleece/sweatshirt + thick jacket/windbreaker; remove or add layers as needed. 2. Sun protection and moisturizing: Strong UV rays and dry climate. High SPF sunscreen, lip balm, moisturizer are must-haves; sunglasses are essential (to prevent snow blindness). 3. Comfortable shoes: Many hikes, plank roads, and rocky paths on the route; a pair of non-slip, durable sports shoes or hiking boots is necessary. 🏥 Health and medicine (prevention) 1. Altitude sickness prevention: Large altitude range, some areas above 3000 meters. Start taking Rhodiola a week in advance (psychological effect helps too). Avoid strenuous exercise, overeating, and bathing immediately upon arrival (to prevent colds triggering altitude sickness). Absolutely no alcohol. Carry disposable oxygen bottles. 2. Essential medicines: cold medicine, stomach medicine, glucose solution, band-aids. Those with serious heart or lung conditions should be cautious about high-altitude areas. 💰 Expenses and communication (practical tips) 1. Carry some cash: Most places accept WeChat/Alipay, but remote towns or Tibetan vendors may only accept cash; keep a few hundred yuan in small bills just in case. 2. Signal instability: Zhagana, Lianbaoyeze, and other deep scenic spots have poor signal and slow internet; download offline maps before departure. 3. Accommodation booking: Prices double and availability tight during peak season (July-August); book accommodations in core cities (Xiahe, Linxia, Langmu Temple, Aba) 15-30 days in advance. 📸 Photography tips (for great shots) 1. Golden hours: Half an hour after sunrise and half an hour before sunset are the best times for photography; wait for these times to capture Zhagana’s morning mist and Lianbaoyeze’s reflections. 2. Composition ideas: For temples, include red walls + golden roofs + blue sky; for grasslands, find lines with cattle/sheep + roads + distant mountains. 3. Respect privacy: Always politely ask permission before photographing cultural subjects (monks, Tibetans close-ups); this is the bottom line. Wishing you a safe journey in Gannan and the chance to encounter the most beautiful Tibetan landscapes! 🎒

Family! Don’t crowd into the trendy cities this May Day Jiuzhaigou is the ultimate fairyland✨ Departing from Xi’an, explore snow mountains, colorful pools, ancient towns, and caves in 4 days—a one-stop check-in that’s super satisfying👇 📸 Highlights for check-in spots ✨ Jiuzhaigou · Mirror Lake: Stunning mountain and water reflections, incredibly breathtaking in real life ​ · Long Lake: Snow mountains paired with blue ice, wearing a red cape makes for amazing photos ​ · Nuorilang Waterfall: Catching a rainbow here is super healing ✨ Huanglong Scenic Area · Golden Sand Covered Ground: Calcite slopes glittering with golden light, stunning under the sun ​ · Zhenyan Pool: Richly colored water, perfect for photos in a white dress ✨ Wudu Wanxiang Cave · Chang’e Flying to the Moon Stalactite Group: Warm lighting creates a full fairyland atmosphere ​ · Underground Dark River Reflection: Taking symmetrical shots is super easy ✨ Zhaohua Ancient Town · Ancient City Wall Overlooking Bailong River: Sunset views are super romantic ​ · County Office Street Bamboo Shadow Wall: Perfect for ancient-style photos 📅 4 days 3 nights itinerary DAY1🚗 Xi’an → Wudu Wanxiang Cave → Jiuzhaigou County DAY2🏞️ Jiuzhaigou County → Huanglong Scenic Area → Jiuzhaigou Entrance DAY3🌈 Full day in Jiuzhaigou → Wen County DAY4🏯 Wen County → Zhaohua Ancient Town → Xi’an 💡 Travel Tips 🔹 Tickets: Be sure to book online in advance 🔹 Clothing: Big temperature difference between morning and night, layer short sleeves + sweatshirt + outdoor jacket 🔹 Essentials: Raincoat, waterproof shoe covers, power bank, sunglasses, sunscreen 🔹 Transportation: Many mountain roads, those prone to motion sickness should prepare medicine in advance

No detours, who understands! Starting from Xi’an during May Day, explore the fairy-tale waters of Jiuzhaigou, the earthly paradise of Huanglong, the ancient city, and the billion-year-old karst caves all in 4 days. No detours, no rush, perfect for the lazy to copy this itinerary directly✅ 🌟 Four Core Attractions One-Stop Check-in Jiuzhaigou|A Fairyland on Earth Five Flower Lake, Nuorilang Waterfall, Shuzheng Lakes all legendary! The lake water shifts from blue to green with full layers, calcified deadwood adds atmosphere, on sunny days the original photos are wallpaper-worthy, every shot is stunning beyond words. 🎫 Tickets: Adult 280 RMB | Student 185 RMB, be sure to book at least 1 week in advance for May Day Huanglong|God’s Spilled Palette Colorful pools, snow-capped mountains, canyons, and forests all gathered here. The layered calcified pools are deep blue and bright yellow. The summit view is breathtaking beyond words. 🎫 Tickets: Adult 170 RMB | Student 85 RMB, must take the uphill cable car to save energy and enjoy the full panorama Wudu Wanxiang Cave|Billion-Year-Old Underground Palace A karst cave formed over 300 million years, with stalagmites and stalactites in countless shapes. Enhanced by lighting, it feels like a magical secret realm. Cool inside, perfect for summer escape and very comfortable to explore. 🎫 Tickets: 100 RMB Zhaohua Ancient City|The First Ancient County of Bashu Full of Three Kingdoms historical heritage, with nine streets and eighteen alleys full of ancient charm. Free entry to stroll around, perfect for taking ancient-style photos. When tired, enjoy local specialty snacks. 📅 Precise 4 Days 3 Nights Itinerary (Two options available) May 1-4 / May 2-5, choose freely, perfectly fits the May Day holiday D1: Xi’an → Wudu Wanxiang Cave → Jiuzhaigou County D2: Jiuzhaigou County → Huanglong Scenic Area → Jiuzhaigou Entrance D3: Full day deep exploration of Jiuzhaigou → Wen County D4: Wen County → Zhaohua Ancient City → Xi’an 📸 Secret photo spots + outfit tips ✅ Jiuzhaigou: Five Flower Lake is bluest at noon; Nuorilang Waterfall close-up mist shots from the plank road; Long Lake plank road for casual shots; aerial shots of Five Color Pool for full panorama and atmosphere; Five Flower Lake shoot from the right-angle fence to avoid crowds, absolutely stunning. ✅ Huanglong: panoramic views of the colorful pools, golden sands ground shots showing calcification flow lines. 👗 Outfit: solid white, blue, light yellow clothes contrast with the landscape, great for photos. 💯 Essential May Day Travel Tips ❶ Large temperature difference between morning and night on the plateau, bring a thin down jacket or windbreaker for windproof and warmth. ❷ Huanglong is at high altitude, walk slowly without running or jumping, carrying an oxygen bottle is safer. ❸ Jiuzhaigou is huge, follow the sightseeing bus route: Shuzheng Lakes → Five Flower Lake → Nuorilang Waterfall, no backtracking, saves your legs. ❹ Huanglong route: cable car up → walk down, balancing panorama and stamina. ❺ Must-eat in Zhaohua Ancient City: steamed cold noodles, sauerkraut noodle blocks, authentic flavors not to be missed. Don’t want to plan or fight for tickets this May Day? This nanny-level closed-loop guide is ready for you! Grab your bestie or lover, start easily from Xi’an, and head to the breathtaking secret realms of Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong🌿

In April, Jiuzhaigou still has snow-capped mountains, peach blossoms in full bloom, and clear water reflecting the flowers—so beautiful it leaves you speechless! If you only take your kids to Western Sichuan once this year, make sure it’s to Jiuzhaigou in April 🌸 🎨 2026 Spring Flower Bloom Reference ▫️ Mid-March to Mid-April | Snow-capped mountains and peach blossoms together, perfect for family photos ▫️ Late April to May | Alpine rhododendrons at their peak, the richest spring colors 📸 7 Must-Visit Family Photo Spots 🌸 Shuzheng Group Lakes Highest density of peach blossoms, flowers blending with water, clear water reflecting flowers—every shot is a family masterpiece 💧 Mirror Lake Visit early morning when there’s no wind; snow mountains and peach blossoms reflect like a mirror, creating a perfect atmosphere 💎 Five Flower Lake Transparent like a gem under the sun, with unbeatable color layers—kids will be amazed 🌿 Forest Boardwalk Use peach blossoms as the foreground to capture panoramic views of Jiuzhaigou, making family photos full of story 🎨 Reed Lake Spring reeds glow golden, clear streams flow, peach blossoms hang over the water—like an oil painting, photos come out stunning 💦 Shuzheng Waterfall Cool mist accompanies blooming peach blossoms, lively and healing—kids will have a blast 🌫️ Rhino Lake One of Jiuzhaigou’s widest lakes, morning mist with snow mountain reflections creates the ultimate spring vibe 🗺️ Easy 3-Day Family Route from Xi’an Day 1: Xi’an → Wudu Wanxiang Cave → Jiuzhaigou County About 5 hours from Xi’an to Longnan, explore the “Northern China’s First Cave” with your kids and see amazing stalactite wonders Drive 3.5 hours in the evening to Jiuzhaigou County for check-in and rest Day 2: Deep Tour of Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area → Wen County Visit key spots all day: Arrow Bamboo Lake, Panda Lake, Five Flower Lake, Pearl Shoal, Nuorilang Waterfall, Long Lake, Five Color Pool—immerse your kids in Jiuzhaigou’s beauty Drive 1.5 hours in the evening to Wen County for authentic farmhouse cuisine Day 3: Wen County → Zhaohua Ancient Town → Xi’an 2.5 hours to Zhaohua Ancient Town, stroll through the millennium-old town with your kids, enjoy local specialties like Sichuan cold noodles and walnut cakes Drive 5 hours in the afternoon back to Xi’an, completing the trip ✅ Simple Travel Tips for Traveling with Kids ▫️ Altitude Sickness: The scenic area’s altitude isn’t high, no worries for normal health; just walk slowly with kids and avoid running or jumping ▫️ Clothing: White/pink/red outfits look best in photos; be sure to bring a windbreaker for kids, not just light spring clothes ▫️ Shoes: The scenic area is all boardwalks, so kids should wear lightweight, non-slip sneakers ▫️ Photography: The light is softest from 9–11 AM and 3–5 PM, perfect for family photos ▫️ Safety: Never cross warning lines, stay away from lake edges, don’t climb branches, and keep kids in sight at all times ▫️ Sun Protection: Strong UV rays on the plateau—apply sunscreen generously on kids and bring hats and sunglasses ▫️ Sightseeing Bus: The area is huge, so take the sightseeing bus; don’t force kids to hike too much ▫️ Supplies: Bring a small amount of water and snacks only, avoid heavy loads for easier family travel Accommodation 🏨 Tree Jiuzhaigou Top luxury wilderness resort surrounded by mountains, with children’s playground and family activities—ultimate vacation experience 🏨 Hilton Jiuzhaigou Resort High-end brand hotel in Jiuzhaigou, complete family rooms, huge children’s playground—super worry-free for family trips 🏨 Johnson Jiuzhaigou Tianyuan Resort Next to Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area, with heated pool and children’s playground, includes shuttle service to the park—very convenient for families 🏨 Qian Guqing Hotel Tibetan-Qiang style themed hotel next to the Qian Guqing scenic area, well-equipped for families, very convenient for sightseeing and watching shows

Take a trip along the Linxia and Gannan route—it’s definitely worth it! Experience the pure faith at the world-renowned Labrang Monastery, and be captivated by the stunning Ganjia secret realm and grasslands that you won’t want to leave. The entire trip is self-paced, no rushing, relaxed and worry-free~ · - Treasure travel guide ready for you, check it out now ↓ · - 🗺️ Suggested itinerary: DAY 1: Gather in Lanzhou — Hotel check-in Upon arrival in Lanzhou, a private car will pick you up from the airport or train station to the hotel. Enjoy free time to recharge for the upcoming Gannan secret realm adventure! 🔋 DAY 2: Bafang Shisan Xiang — Labrang Monastery — Bajiao Ancient City Ruins Wander through the ethnic streets of Linxia, feel the power of faith at the world-famous Labrang Monastery, and finally explore the millennia-old ancient city ruins. 🕌 DAY 3: Milarepa Pagoda — Guomang Wetland — Langmusi Scenic Area Pilgrimage to the nine-story pagoda in the Amdo Tibetan region, stroll through the highland wetlands to spot black-necked cranes, and listen to Buddhist chants in the “Little Switzerland of the East,” Langmusi. 🦌 DAY 4-5: Lianbaoyeze — Ruoergai Flower Lake — Zhagana Immerse yourself for two days in sacred mountains and holy lakes! Explore the magical stone peaks of Lianbaoyeze, encounter the wetland spirits of Ruoergai, and stay in the fairy-tale Tibetan village of Zhagana. 🏔️ DAY 6: Guan’egou Experience the canyon waterfalls and Qiang ethnic culture in Guan’egou, known as the “Little Jiuzhaigou of Longnan,” and enjoy a Tibetan yak meat hotpot for dinner. ♨️ DAY 7-8: Maijishan Grottoes — Fuxi Temple — Return to Lanzhou Spend the last two days traveling through history: admire the Maijishan Grottoes, an eastern sculpture museum, pay respects at the Fuxi Temple, the cultural ancestor, and return to Lanzhou full of Tibetan memories. ✈️ · - Travel tips: · Souvenir prices: Handmade carpets start at around 100 yuan, remember to bargain! 💰 · March climate: Big temperature difference between morning and night, layering with a jacket and light innerwear is key 🧥✨ · Photo spots: The blue walls of Bafang Shisan Xiang, wear light colors for better photos 📸 · Must-try food: Hezhou steamed buns with covered bowl tea, warm and filling 🥟🍵 · Cultural respect: Speak softly and walk slowly when visiting temples, respect local customs 🕌🙏 · - 【Stress-free solo travel, unlock affordable itineraries with one click】

Enter at 12:00 noon and leave by 6:00 PM to see the entire Jiuzhaigou! (Excluding areas closed in the off-season) It takes about 6 hours to cover the open spots on the left and right routes (some attractions are closed in the off-season). The middle route is almost fully covered as well. The time for a one-day Jiuzhaigou tour in the off-season is very ample! Have dinner and stay overnight, then rest the next day before leaving. 8:00-11:00 Longnan Bus Station — Jiuzhaigou (tickets bought on 12306) 11:00-11:30 Return to hotel to drop off luggage — entrance to the scenic area (It’s recommended to find a hotel close to the entrance or restaurants for convenience!) 11. 30 Enter the scenic area and queue for the sightseeing bus 12. 15 Arrive at the first stop: Arrow Bamboo Sea 12. 30-13:30 Arrow Bamboo Sea to Panda Lake (we walked this section, taking photos along the way, and bought some potatoes for snacks at Panda Lake) 13. 30-14:40 Panda Lake to Five Flower Lake (highly recommend walking this part! The scenery is stunning! Bought grilled sausages at Five Flower Lake, very tasty!) 14. 40-15:00 Five Flower Lake to Pearl Shoal Waterfall (took the sightseeing bus for this section) 15. 00-15:30 Pearl Shoal Waterfall to Mirror Lake (Mirror Lake didn’t impress us much) 15:30-15:50 Mirror Lake to Nuorilang Waterfall (we didn’t stay long here because we wanted to finish the western route, so after getting off, we started walking to the boarding point for the west line ⚠️ For those wanting to complete both routes, note that the last bus from the middle line to the left line in the off-season is around 16:00. We got on the second to last bus.) 15. 50-16:10 Nuorilang Waterfall to Long Lake (unexpectedly beautiful! Who says you can skip the left route! If you have time, definitely go! It’s breathtaking! When we visited, there was still snow on the left route’s attractions, making the photos especially serene) 16. 20-16:30 Long Lake to Five Color Pool (this is my favorite spot in all of Jiuzhaigou! Absolutely stunning. Snow decorates the blue water, the sun setting and the dim sky make the blue water even clearer! The right route’s scenery depends a lot on lighting, but the left route has a unique atmosphere at any time, totally worth it! Missing this stop would be a real regret 😔 This spot is also the highest altitude in Jiuzhaigou, over 3000 meters) 16. 40-17:15 Five Color Pool to Shuzheng Village 17. 15-17:35 Shuzheng Village to Shuanglong Lake (we walked a bit further inside; Shuanglong Lake has a layered, gradient color) 17:35-17:50 Shuanglong Lake to Reed Lake (it wasn’t reed season when we visited, so the reeds were sparse and a bit pale. We walked halfway to Reed Lake and then took the last sightseeing bus of the day) Around 18:00 Exit the scenic area just after six, then take a taxi to a restaurant for dinner

Departing from Chengdu! Complete travel guide to the secluded fairyland of Tianchi in Wen County, Longnan✨ 📍 Scenic spot address: Tianchi Township, Wen County, Longnan City, Gansu Province ⏰ Opening hours: 08:00-18:00 (Peak season May-October) 🌟 Reasons to recommend: 1️⃣ Only about 6+ hours from Chengdu, perfect for a weekend round trip⏳ 2️⃣ Highland pearl, crystal-clear water that rivals Jiuzhaigou✨ 3️⃣ Fewer crowds and beautiful scenery, every photo looks like a masterpiece without the hassle of crowds🤳 4️⃣ Scenic all year round, each season offers different beauty🌈 5️⃣ Summer resort, average temperature of 22℃ in summer, super comfortable🌿 🚗 Transportation guide 1️⃣ Self-driving (highly recommended!) · Navigation location: Wen County Tianchi Scenic Area · Shortest route: Chengdu → Jingkun Expressway → Lanhai Expressway → Yujiawan Exit → Wen County Tianchi (about 6-7 hours) · Driving tips: The latter part of the mountain road has many curves, beginners are advised to drive cautiously🌀 · Parking arrangement: Parking lot at the scenic area entrance (20 RMB per time) → transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus🚌 (about 15 minutes) 2️⃣ Public transportation guide · High-speed rail option: Chengdu East → Longnan Station (3.5 hours) · Shuttle option: Carpool from Longnan Station (50 RMB/person) or charter car (200 RMB/car) directly to the scenic area🚗 🏞️ In-depth travel guide 🎫 Ticket information: · Peak season (May-October): 85 RMB/person · Off-season (November-April): 60 RMB/person ⚠️ Includes round-trip shuttle bus ticket🚎 ⏳ Recommended duration: Full day 🌟 Must-try activities review: ✅ Tianchi core area · Lake water as blue as a mirror of the sky🌊 · Surrounded by mountains like a fairyland⛰️ · Photo tip: Best lighting from 9 to 11 AM ✅ Boat tour on the lake · Price: 60 RMB/person · Duration: 20 minutes🛶 · Experience: Gentle breeze, rippling lake surface, very soothing💙 ✅ Hiking the lakeside boardwalk · Total length: about 5 kilometers · Suggested route: stroll, stop, and take photos for 2-3 hours📸 · Hidden photo spot: The corner at Pier No. 5 is an excellent shooting point ✅ Viewing platform · Walking difficulty: ★★★ · Reward: Panoramic view of the entire Tianchi🤩 · Surprise: If lucky, you can see a sea of clouds 🍜 Food guide Recommended farmhouse restaurant at the scenic area entrance🏡: · Highland wild vegetables🥬 · Free-range chicken stewed with potatoes🍗 · Handmade hot and sour noodles🍜 🏠 Accommodation guide · Homestays inside the scenic area: average 100-200 RMB/night · Recommendation: Mountain views from the window, stunning starry sky✨ · Drawback: Basic conditions · Hotels in Wen County downtown (30 minutes by car) · Advantage: Well-equipped facilities · Price: 150-300 RMB/night 📌 Must-read tips before visiting 1️⃣ Best season: May-October, July-August is the coolest🍃 2️⃣ Essential gear: · Sun protection trio: hat + sunglasses + sunscreen☀️ · Lightweight hiking shoes🥾 · Large temperature difference between morning and evening, bring a jacket🧥 3️⃣ Photography gear: · Recommended to bring wide-angle and telephoto lenses📷 · Drones must be reported in advance✈️ 4️⃣ Suggested travel routes: · For good stamina, choose the lakeside hiking trail · For a relaxed experience, take the boat tour + half of the boardwalk 💬 My experience: Wen County Tianchi is truly a treasure discovered in recent years! If you don’t want to be squeezed by crowds in Jiuzhaigou, this is definitely the best alternative. Plus, prices are affordable and the travel experience is top-notch💯 Chengdu friends, weekend trip, go go go!🚗💨

| Step into the Pre-Qin Secret Realm🍃 The Ultimate Qin Culture Fossil Hunter! 🔥 Longnan's Top Attractions! Double Whammy of Baima Tibetan Village + Guangegou Mini Jiuzhaigou! 📍Address: Guangegou Scenic Area, Tanchang County, Longnan City, Gansu Province 🚌Transport Tips: Take high-speed rail from Lanzhou/Chengdu to Hadapu Station, then transfer to scenic area shuttle (1-hour direct ride) 1️⃣ Baima River Tibetan Village 🔸 The last clan tribe! Highland fairies of Tibetan-Qiang mixed heritage, watch grandmothers hand-weaving colorful belts 🔸 Must-try: Drinking smashed wine and dancing around fire circles (performances every Saturday at 3 PM) 2️⃣ Guange Heavenly Waterfall 🔸 A 3,000-meter-altitude glacial waterfall! Ice formations still visible in July 🔸 Hidden gem: Rainbow photography under the waterfall (appears 11 AM-2 PM on sunny days) 📸 Viral Photo Spots: ✅ Lupren Tibetan Village Glass Viewing Platform: Cliffside village + snow-capped mountains in one frame ✅ Guange Waterfall Suspension Bridge: Wide-angle shots of people walking through a painting (wear bright colors) 🍜 Taste Bud Explosion: ▫️ Jar Wine: Tibetan-style sweet barley brew sipped through wheat straws ▫️ Red Army Pancakes: Long March-era dry rations, perfect with cured meat ⚠️ Pro Tips: ▫️ No short skirts! Must step over firepans when entering Tibetan homes ▫️ Bring oxygen bottles for areas above 2,800 meters ▫️ Lupren Valley closes after 4 PM 🏷️

Worried about the crowds at popular May Day destinations? Try these lesser-known treasures instead - fewer people, beautiful scenery, excellent value, and a focus on relaxed vacationing! Longnan: A Poetic Hideaway Known as "Jiangnan of the Gansu Plateau" 📍Must-visit attractions: Guan'e Valley, with its lush forests, numerous waterfalls, and intoxicating mountain and water scenery; Wanxiang Cave, a natural karst cave with fantastically shaped stalactites that create a dreamlike fairyland; Bikou Ancient Town, a peaceful town along the Bailong River where ancient streets and alleys tell stories of the past. 🍱Local delicacies: Potato Stirred Paste, soft and chewy, paired with sour and spicy seasonings for an appetizing bite; Tofu Flower Noodles, featuring chewy noodles and delicate tofu in a savory spicy broth; Wenxian Cured Meat, with an enticing color and salty, delicious flavor that gets better with each bite. 🏠Accommodation recommendations: Boutique guesthouses in Wudu District that offer both local atmosphere and comfortable living experiences; resort hotels within the Guan'e Valley scenic area, where you can enjoy views right from your window and convenient access to attractions. Southeast Guizhou: A Hub of Colorful Ethnic Culture 📍Must-visit attractions: Zhaoxing Dong Village, a grand Dong ethnic village with drum towers and flower bridges arranged in perfect harmony, beautifully illuminated at night; Jiabang Rice Terraces, where layer upon layer of terraced fields complement Miao villages, creating breathtaking views at sunrise and sunset; Zhenyuan Ancient Town, a historic town along the Wuyang River where boat rides at night let you experience the town's tranquility and romance. 🍱Local delicacies: Sour Fish Soup, Guizhou's signature dish featuring tender fish in a rich sour broth - satisfying with every spoonful; Dong-style Cured Meat, prepared with unique preservation techniques for a firm texture and distinctive flavor; Si Wawa (Vegetable Wraps), various shredded vegetables with special sauce wrapped together for a refreshing, appetizing bite. 🏠Accommodation recommendations: Characteristic inns in Zhaoxing Dong Village with wooden structures full of ethnic charm; riverside guesthouses in Zhenyuan Ancient Town where you can fall asleep to the sound of flowing water and wake up to sunshine. Pu'er: A Leisurely City Filled with Tea Fragrance 📍Must-visit attractions: Sunriver Forest Park, where you can encounter red pandas, gibbons and other adorable animals while strolling through the rainforest to experience nature's vitality; Ancient Tea Horse Road Scenic Area, where you can follow the historic caravan routes and learn about Pu'er tea culture; during the May Day holiday, there will also be star concerts, relaxing lawn music festivals and other exciting events. 🍱Local delicacies: Dai-style Finger Rice, a plate full of rich ingredients eaten with your hands for a special dining experience; Pu'er Small Bean Coffee, rich and mellow with a unique taste; Pounded Chicken Feet, sour and spicy - you'll fall in love with the first bite. 🏠Accommodation recommendations: Red Panda Manor, where you can stay in forest cabins and connect closely with nature; boutique hotels in the city center, convenient for shopping and transportation. Chongzuo: A Landscape Painting Along the Border 📍Must-visit attractions: Detian Transnational Waterfall, Asia's largest and the world's fourth-largest transnational waterfall, with magnificent cascades creating misty sprays; Mingshi Countryside, featuring typical karst mountain and water scenery that you can explore on bamboo rafts, as if floating through a Chinese ink painting; Guangxi Chongzuo White-headed Leaf Monkey National Nature Reserve, where you can observe the rare white-headed leaf monkeys. 🍱Local delicacies: Sour Porridge, with its unique flavor that whets the appetite; Five-colored Glutinous Rice, colorful and soft with auspicious meanings; Rolled Rice Noodles, thin wrappers filled with rich fillings and topped with sauce - absolutely delicious. 🏠Accommodation recommendations: Hotels in downtown Chongzuo with convenient transportation; characteristic guesthouses near Detian Waterfall where you can experience the waterfall's charm up close. This May Day holiday, avoid the crowds and enjoy yourself freely in these lesser-known cities! Remember to plan your itinerary and book accommodations in advance~🚗💖

The Yunping Three Gorges is located in Yunping Township, Longnan City, Gansu Province. It is called the "Yunping Three Gorges" because it has three canyons: "Tudi Gorge", "Guanyin Gorge" and "Xigou Gorge". It combines the majesty of the north and the beauty of the south. The scenery is great. Follow my camera to take a look. Yunping Three Gorges is about 30 kilometers away from Liangdang County and about 200 kilometers away from Longnan City. The scenic spot is large, so it is recommended to drive here for one or two days. There are fewer tourists here, so it is not over-commercialized and still maintains its original and natural state. If time permits, staying in a farmhouse for one night should be good. #See the Earth in an instant

I was truly amazed by a night tour of Wanxiang Street in Wudu, Longnan! ✨ The lights are endless, making the entire ancient street shimmer with color, while the evening breeze carries the enticing aromas of various snacks~ Watching couples stroll by, eating as they browse, really captures the vibrant local atmosphere 🥹 Strolling along the street, the stalls are steaming with hot food, and the "wok hei" (breath of the wok) from the chefs cooking on the spot is so inviting—I wanted to stop and try a bite at every single one 🍢 The antique Chinese-style architecture is especially charming at night; with grey bricks, dark tiles, and strings of red lanterns, every photo you take feels like a cinematic shot 📸 To be honest, the nightlife in Longnan is far more exciting than I imagined! Here, I truly felt the unique charm of the "Jiangnan of Longnan"—it has both the gentleness of the south and the vibrant, down-to-earth energy of the northwest 💫 Wanxiang Street at night is the perfect route for a post-meal stroll~ It's super suitable for dates or hanging out with friends!

🍂 Located in southeastern Gansu, nestled between the Qinling Mountains and the Minshan Mountains, Longnan is known as the "Jiangnan of the Long region." Visiting in autumn offers a blend of northern grandeur and southern gentleness, featuring colorful forests, clear waters, medicinal scents, and ancient towns all in one trip. 📌 Route 1: Guan'egou + Dangchang Wellness 🍁 Autumn is the season for colorful forests in Guan'egou, where the vibrant trees and waterfalls complement each other. 📸 Photo spots: Long exposure shots in front of waterfalls, colorful forest boardwalks, and panoramic valley views. 📌 Route 2: Wenxian Tianchi + Bikou Ancient Town + Baima River 💙 In autumn, the water in Wenxian Tianchi is as blue as a gemstone. Stroll along the lakeside boardwalk to take in the views of snow-capped mountains and clouds. 🔥 Stop by the Baima River Folk Culture Scenic Area to experience the Baima Tibetan bonfire party and ancient folk songs. 🍵 Sit by the Bailong River in Bikou Ancient Town, sip some local Longjing tea, and enjoy the slow-paced life of this "Little Jiangnan of the Long region." 📌 Route 3: Kangxian Yangba + Qianba Pasture 🌿 With a forest coverage rate of over 80%, Kangxian Yangba is a "natural oxygen bar." 💧 Meiyuan Valley features crisscrossing streams and lush tea gardens; visit Qianba Pasture to see autumn meadows and distant mountains. 📌 Route 4: Wudu Wanxiang Cave + Wanxiang District 🪨 Known as the "No. 1 Cave in China," Wudu Wanxiang Cave features stalactites in various shapes that look dreamlike. 🌃 Return to Wanxiang District in the evening for intangible cultural heritage performances and light shows, making the nightlife vibrant and lively. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🍜 2. Local food recommendations ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🥔 Potato Jiao Tuan: A famous Longnan snack, chewy and savory—a must-try when you arrive. 🥣 Kangbao + Oil tea = A soul-warming combo. 🍲 Rice noodles + Tofu pudding = 3+2. 🌯 Vegetable wraps + Soy milk = Perfect. 🍜 Dough slices + Walnut cake = A comfortable start to the morning. 🥩 Lunch: Beef dough slices, highly recommended. 🍚 Farmhouse 5-piece set: The highest etiquette for hosting guests in Wudu at noon. 🌙 Evening: Liangshui 3-piece set or farmhouse firewood chicken. 🍲 Warm pot + Squid dough slices: A comforting combo for autumn nights. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🏨 3. Hotel recommendation: Vienna International Hotel (Longnan Wudu Gujinli Branch) ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 📍 Vienna International Hotel (Longnan Wudu Gujinli Branch): Located by the Bailong River and next to the Gujinli commercial street, it offers convenient transportation and is an excellent base whether you are stopping over or exploring in depth. 💰 Approx. 100 per person. Enjoy free room upgrades and late check-out, subject to the hotel's room availability and promotions on the day. 🛏 Rooms cater to different needs, including river-view rooms, family rooms, smart room controls, constant temperature showers, and 3-second instant hot water for a comfortable bath. 🍳 Rich breakfast, free freshly ground coffee, free afternoon tea, free self-service tea, welcome fruit upon check-in, and souvenirs. 🧺 Free laundry, gym, printing, and room service. 🚗 Free parking, with charging, refueling, and car wash services within 100 meters. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🚗 4. City transportation ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🚙 Self-driving is highly recommended. Attractions in Longnan are scattered and involve many mountain roads, making a car more flexible. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🛒 5. Specialty products ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🌶 Wudu Sichuan peppercorns: Fragrant and aromatic, available in small, portable cans. 🫒 Olive products: Fruit oil and skincare products are great as souvenirs.

No need to fight the crowds at Jiuzhaigou, scramble for photo spots at Guangwu Mountain, or even squeeze onto the Hexi Corridor line from Lanzhou—deep in the Qinba Mountains at the southernmost tip of Gansu lies a hidden autumn gem recommended by *Chinese National Geography*. The red leaves here rival western Sichuan, the lakes rival Jiuzhaigou, and ancient Qiang and Tibetan villages are tucked away among the colorful forests. When autumn arrives, the clear waters, colorful forests, and lake reflections make the entire valley look like an overturned palette of oil paints. This is Guan'egou, a secluded paradise known as the "Jiangnan of Longnan." Guan'egou is located in Dangchang County, Longnan City, Gansu Province. It is a national 5A-rated tourist attraction consisting of two valleys: Guanzhugou and E'mangou. The golden period for viewing autumn colors in Guan'egou is from late September to mid-to-late October. Inside the valley, red maples, birch trees, and green pines intertwine, with 13 emerald-like lakes resting quietly in the valley. The 180-meter-high Guan'e Waterfall cascades down, and the lake water perfectly mirrors the colorful forests covering the mountains—every snapshot looks like an oil painting. There are no massive crowds like in Jiuzhaigou, no over-commercialization like in Guangwu Mountain, just the most pristine highland autumn scenery and the smoke rising from Qiang and Tibetan village chimneys. A high-speed train ticket to Hadapu Station, followed by a one-hour drive into the mountains, will take you into this "Longnan oil painting" guarded by autumn colors and clear waters. 🗺️ 1-day itinerary overview Morning: Guanzhugou + Guan'e Waterfall Depart from Dangchang County → Take a vehicle into Guanzhugou → Hike along the boardwalk to see 13 emerald lakes spread out among the colorful forests → Arrive at Guan'e Waterfall, where the 180-meter-high waterfall cascades down from the colorful cliffs, with water mist refracting rainbows in the autumn sun Noon: Lunch in a Qiang/Tibetan village Take a break at the ancient Luren Qiang/Tibetan village inside the valley and enjoy authentic local Longnan farm-style food → Potato *jiaotuan* (mashed potato dumplings) with chili oil—sour, spicy, and chewy Afternoon: E'mangou + return Transfer to the sightseeing bus to enter E'mangou → Hike along the wooden boardwalk to see red leaves hanging over the lake, with the water reflecting the colorful forests like a mirror → If you're lucky, you might encounter a sea of clouds in the forest → Return in the evening 🍁 Guanzhugou—the "oil painting valley" of clear waters and colorful forests Guanzhugou is the core scenic area of Guan'egou and where the autumn colors are most intense. Walking into the valley, red maples, birch trees, and green pines weave together into a symphony of color—layers of orange-red, golden yellow, and dark green spread from your feet all the way to the distant ridgeline. The most stunning features are the 13 lakes in the valley; the water is an emerald green, and the autumn forests are reflected on the surface, creating a perfect symmetry where it's hard to tell what's real and what's a reflection. Guan'e Waterfall is the grand finale of Guanzhugou. The 180-meter-high waterfall cascades down from the colorful cliffs, with a roaring sound and mist filling the air. Under the autumn sun, rainbows often appear in front of the waterfall, and water droplets sparkle among the colorful leaves—it's the most photogenic spot in the entire valley. 🏘️ E'mangou and Luren ancient Qiang/Tibetan village—the vibe of daily life among colorful forests E'mangou is quieter than Guanzhugou, with fewer tourists and denser red leaves. Hiking along the wooden boardwalk, you'll be accompanied by colorful forests and streams, occasionally encountering local villagers herding cattle and sheep. If you're lucky, a sea of clouds will rise in the valley in the early morning, with the colorful forests appearing and disappearing in the mist, like a flowing ink wash painting. Luren ancient Qiang/Tibetan village is hidden deep in Guanzhugou and is the only human settlement in Guan'egou. Qiang and Tibetan-style houses are scattered among the colorful forests, with smoke rising from the roofs, forming a picture of "everyday life" alongside the red leaves and clear waters. Stopping here for a farm-style meal is much more comfortable than queuing at the scenic area restaurants. 🍜 Flavors of Longnan—the sour, spicy, and rich tastes of the mountains Longnan, where Guan'egou is located, has a culinary foundation rooted in the sour and spicy flavors of the Qinba Mountains. Potato *jiaotuan* is a local signature dish; steamed potatoes are pounded repeatedly into a sticky, chewy dough, then mixed with chili oil, fragrant vinegar, and minced garlic—sour, spicy, and chewy, with a taste of the wild in every bite. Fern stir-fried with cured meat uses freshly picked ferns from the mountains paired with farm-cured meat—salty, savory, and perfect with rice. Longnan earthen hot pot is slow-cooked over charcoal, with a base layer of radishes and potatoes, a middle layer of crispy pork and meatballs, and a top layer covered in cured pork ribs—the soup is fresh and rich. There's also *guanguan* wine (a type of local rice wine); warming a pot to drink while enjoying the autumn scenery is both warming and comforting. You can get a satisfying meal at small shops in the county or farmhouses in the valley for about 40–50 yuan per person. 📝 Practical travel guide for Guan'egou How to get there: High-speed train + transfer: Take a high-speed train to "Hadapu Station" (Dangchang County, Longnan). Upon exiting, transfer to a shuttle bus or take a taxi to Dangchang County (about 30 minutes), then take a vehicle from the county into the Guan'egou Scenic Area. Self-driving (recommended): Navigate to "Guan'egou Grand Scenic Area." It takes about 4–5 hours from Lanzhou and about 3 hours from Tianshui. There are many curves on the mountain roads, and some sections are prone to fog, so drive slowly and check the weather forecast and road conditions before you leave. Ticket info: Tickets for the Guan'egou Grand Scenic Area are about 80–100 yuan/person (including sightseeing bus), with half-price for students. It is recommended to reserve a full day, take the sightseeing bus deep into the area, and hike along the wooden boardwalks. If you have limited energy, you can just visit the core lake area. Best season: Late September to mid-to-late October is the golden period for viewing autumn colors in Guan'egou. After the National Day holiday or in mid-October, the number of tourists drops sharply, and the colors of the forests reach their peak, making it the best window for off-peak travel. Accommodation: Staying in Dangchang County is the top choice, as there are many hotel options and complete facilities, and it's about a 20-minute drive to the scenic area. For a deeper experience, you can stay in a Qiang/Tibetan homestay inside the valley or a farmhouse around the scenic area. Essentials: Non-slip hiking shoes (the forest trails are damp, so be sure to wear non-slip shoes), a windbreaker or light down jacket (there is a huge temperature difference between day and night in the mountains, and it is cold in the early morning and evening), mosquito repellent, a power bank, and a camera (the lake reflections in Guan'egou are the soul of the place). There are few supplies in the forest, so carry drinking water and some snacks with you. Special reminder ⚠️: Early morning and after 4:00 PM are the best times for photography, as the light is soft and the texture of the lake reflections is at its best. Guan'egou is a national 5A-rated scenic area, so please do not pick plants or disturb wild animals. Take all your trash with you. If driving, be cautious as there are many curves on the mountain roads; slow down in rainy or foggy weather.

In the height of summer, as heatwaves roll across inland areas, I escaped the city's sweltering heat and headed to Gannan to embark on a mountain getaway. This route connects river valleys, stone cities, wetlands, the Yellow River, ancient temples, and grasslands. Starting from the mild Longnan, we traveled west, slowly entering the vastness and tranquility of the Tibetan region. Summer here is only between 10°C and 20°C. The evening breeze is cool, and you even need a thin quilt at night—it is a natural air-conditioned room gifted by nature. Our first stop was Longnan. With lush green mountains and crisscrossing river valleys, the view is filled with gentle greenery. The river winds through the canyon, the forests are dense and verdant, and the air is moist and refreshing. It retains the gentleness of the Longnan mountains, distinct from the vastness of the plateau. As the start of the journey, it slowly transitions us from the bustling city to the secret Tibetan realm. Following the national highway westward, the mountain roads wind, the vegetation gradually changes, and the altitude slowly rises as we head toward Zhagana in Diebu. After crossing layers of mountains, we finally arrived at Zhagana. The Tibetan name means "stone box." Four towering stone mountains rise from the ground, enclosing a valley where Tibetan villages are built along the slopes, with wooden houses, farmland, and prayer flags scattered across the hillsides. Morning is the most beautiful time in Zhagana. Thin mist wraps around the rock walls, clouds half-conceal the village, and the stone mountains appear and disappear, like a traditional ink wash painting. Strolling through Fairy Beach, soft meadows spread across the valley, dotted with wildflowers, and looking up, you see towering stone peaks. Take a light hike along the mountain paths, listen to the babbling streams, and watch the sea of forests surge. Staying in a Tibetan homestay at night, you can look up at the starry sky, and the evening breeze blowing through the valley dissolves all the fatigue of the journey. Bidding farewell to Zhagana, we headed to the Ruoergai Grassland. The vast wilderness unfolded infinitely before our eyes, and the next stop was Flower Lake. The Flower Lake, a highland wetland, is a clear blue sapphire on the grassland. Wooden boardwalks extend deep into the wetland, with clear lake water reflecting the drifting clouds and blue sky. The water plants are lush, water birds skim across the lake surface, and the meadows are covered with tiny wildflowers. Walking on the boardwalk, the world is vast, the clouds seem to be right overhead, and the wind carries the crisp scent of grass and lake water, sweeping away all traces of summer heat. Continuing west, we arrived at Tangke Town. The small town sits quietly in the heart of the grassland. In the evening, we climbed the viewing platform to wait for the sunset at the First Bend of the Yellow River. The Yellow River, which I previously imagined as roaring and surging, becomes gentle and winding here. The White River and the Yellow River slowly embrace, and the water meanders across the boundless grassland, carving out beautiful S-shaped bends like a golden hada spread across the earth. As the sun slowly sinks and the afterglow fills the sky, the entire river channel is bathed in molten gold from the sunset, the water surface shimmering with orange-red and flecks of gold, and the distant mountains turn into faint silhouettes. The magnificence of the sunset over the long river, seen with one's own eyes, is worth more than a thousand words. As night falls, looking up in Tangke Town reveals a brilliant galaxy; the plateau's starry sky is clean and bright, leaving one intoxicated for a long time. Leaving Tangke, we went to Langmusi. This is a unique town that spans two provinces, Gansu and Sichuan. The Bailong River flows through the town, dividing it in two. The golden roof of Sertri Monastery on the Gansu side shines brilliantly, while the Kerti Monastery on the Sichuan side is ancient and profound. Walking slowly into the Namo Grand Canyon, there are babbling clear streams, deep forests, and rugged rocks. Deep in the canyon, the sounds of wind and water intertwine, far from the hustle and bustle. Here, you can see devout pilgrims turning prayer wheels, smell the faint scent of yak butter, and feel the unique tranquility and power of faith in the Tibetan region. Heading north, we arrived in Xiahe to visit the "World Tibetan Academy," Labrang Monastery. With red walls and golden roofs, the halls are layered, and the magnificent monastery complex sits in the river valley. The world's longest prayer wheel corridor surrounds the monastery, with over 2,000 prayer wheels lined up. I followed the crowd, walking slowly clockwise, turning the prayer wheels one by one with my own hands, listening to the low hum of the cylinders turning. The scent of yak butter filled the air, the sound of chanting could be faintly heard, and the pilgrims walked with composure, their hearts at peace. Walking through the Buddha halls, examining the murals and thangkas, and touching the heavy history, the restlessness of the mundane world slowly settled down here. At the end of the journey, we came to Meiren Grassland. Unlike ordinary flat grasslands, this area features a unique frost-heave mound landscape, with countless round, fluffy grass mounds rolling and undulating, like a green velvet carpet spread across the earth. In the height of summer, the meadows are emerald green, and Gesang flowers are scattered like stars among them. The highway cuts across the grassland, and long tunnels of colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind. The five-colored wind horse flags—blue, white, red, green, and yellow—fly in the wind; every time the wind blows, it is a prayer. Cattle and sheep are scattered among the grass mounds, slowly lowering their heads to graze, while the shadows of clouds drift slowly across the wilderness in the distance. Standing on the vast grassland, with the wind blowing past my ears, the world is vast, and my state of mind expands along with it. This Gannan summer getaway slowly comes to an end here. From the mild river valleys of Longnan to the misty stone city of Zhagana; from the clear wetlands of Flower Lake to the sunset at the First Bend of the Yellow River; from the canyon streams of Langmusi to the Buddhist chants of Labrang Monastery, and finally returning to the boundless greenery of Meiren Grassland. High mountains, canyons, wetlands, great rivers, ancient temples, and grasslands—we encountered them all. A 20-degree summer has both the magnificence of mountains and rivers and the warmth of human life; this is the unique romance of Colorful Gannan. Note: The temperature difference between day and night on the plateau is large. Even in midsummer, you need to prepare a thin jacket. Slow down your pace when traveling and slowly feel the scenery and faith of this land.

I finally found a secluded courtyard in Longnan Baima River✨ Far from the city hustle, embraced by rolling green mountains, it's a place you won't want to leave once you arrive. The rustic stone gate is full of local charm. Push it open to enter a courtyard blooming with flowers🌼 Stone paths wind through the garden, where hydrangeas and various wildflowers bloom freely, and maple trees dot the yard—every step is a new view. The wooden stilt-house architecture, with wooden beams and railings paired with white walls and dark tiles, and red lanterns hanging high, exudes a rich Northwest mountain vibe. Every photo looks like a pastoral masterpiece. The courtyard is full of autumn vibes, decorated with old stone mills, straw, and pumpkins—thoughtful details everywhere. In the early morning, mist curls through the mountains, and the distant peaks are faintly visible, as if you've stumbled into a hidden paradise. The rooms feature a simple, natural wood style🪵 Solid wood bed frames, wood-paneled walls, clean and elegant, simple yet cozy. You can see the green mountains outside the window while lying in bed. It's quiet at night, and you can fall asleep to the sound of insects—your sleep quality will be top-notch. In your leisure time, sunbathe in the courtyard, watch the flowers, feel the breeze, daydream, and drink tea. No need to rush your itinerary; just enjoy the slow life in the mountains and completely slow down your pace of life. Nearby, you can visit the Baima River Scenic Area to see the forests and streams and experience the landscape of Longnan. It's perfect for a short weekend getaway, whether you're traveling with family or gathering with friends. Escape the rat race and come to the mountains to recharge🔋 📝Stay Tips ▪️The temperature difference between day and night in the mountains is significant, so remember to bring a light jacket ▪️It's easy for mist to form in the mountains in the early morning, which is perfect for atmospheric photos ▪️The courtyard is located close to the forest, offering an immersive experience of mountain and pastoral life

🍂 October Reverse Travel Guide | ✅ 4 Budget-Friendly, Off-the-Beaten-Path Cities to Avoid Crowds and Overpricing Scrolling through social media during the National Day holiday, everywhere you look, tourist attractions are packed with people. If you don't want to rush around like a "special forces" traveler, don't want to get ripped off by "tourist traps," and just want to take it slow, eat, drink, and have a comfortable trip on a budget, these 4 off-the-beaten-path cities are perfect for reverse travel. They are free from crowded tour groups, local prices generally don't skyrocket, and students or budget travelers can just copy this itinerary. 📍 Jixi, Anhui | A vibrant ancient county in southern Anhui, avoiding the crowds of Hongcun and Xidi Many people only focus on Hongcun and Xidi when visiting southern Anhui, which become impassable during the National Day holiday. Nearby Jixi is much quieter, an authentic old Hui-style town with very little commercialization and full of the local atmosphere of everyday life. 🚞 Transportation: High-speed rail directly to Jixi North Station. It takes about 2 hours from Hangzhou or Hefei. The county is small; buses cost 2 yuan, and you can get around easily by shared bike. 🏨 Accommodation: Standard guesthouses and chain hotels in the county are mostly 100–160 yuan per night during the holiday, so no need to fight for overpriced rooms. 🍜 Food & Drink: Huizhou guo (pastry) and ta guo cost just a few yuan each, a large plate of Jixi stir-fried rice noodles is 12 yuan, and a small portion of stinky mandarin fish for a group meal can be had for 40 yuan per person. The taste at street-side shops is just as good as the viral restaurants. 🗓 Simple Itinerary D1: Arrive, explore the old streets and alleys, and have local home-style cooking for dinner; D2: Visit Longchuan Ancient Village, walk along the field paths, and enjoy the autumn scenery of white walls and black tiles; D3: Wander around Jiapeng Township, see the autumn mountain terraces, and avoid the crowded paid attractions; D4: Take it slow, enjoy some snacks, and buy some dried mountain bamboo shoots before heading home. 💡 Highlights: Many ancient villages are free to explore from the outside. The autumn sky is clear, and walking in the countryside is very relaxing—no need to queue for photos. 📍 Longnan, Gansu | Jiangnan of the Long region, shattering stereotypes of the Northwest When people mention the Great Northwest, they always think of the Gobi Desert and sandstorms. Longnan is completely different—full of green mountains and clear waters, known as the "Jiangnan of the Long region." The scenery at Guan'egou and Tianchi is impressive, with far fewer tourists than Zhangye or Dunhuang, and the cost of living is very down-to-earth. 🚞 Transportation: High-speed rail to Longnan, just over 2 hours from Lanzhou. Taxis in the city are affordable, and you can carpool to surrounding attractions. 🏨 Accommodation: City hotels are just over 100 yuan, with very small price increases during the holiday. 🍜 Food & Drink: Walnut buns, sweet fermented flour (tianbeizi), and oil tea with fried dough twists—street snacks cost just a few yuan, and you can have a full, satisfying meal for 35 yuan per person. 🗓 Simple Itinerary D1: Arrive in the city, explore the old town, and taste Northwest specialty snacks; D2: Visit Guan'egou to see the canyon water features, green mountains, and waterfalls; D3: Visit Wenxian Tianchi to see the alpine lake and take a walk in the forest for some fresh air; D4: Explore the local market, buy some mountain goods, and head home. 💡 Highlights: The temperature in October is just right—not too hot. The mountains and waters are serene. Choose this place if you like quiet and natural scenery. 📍 Changting, Jiangxi | An ancient Hakka city, much quieter than Fenghuang Everyone says Fenghuang Ancient Town is packed during the National Day holiday. Changting, located in neighboring Fujian, is a living Hakka ancient city where residents still live inside the city walls. It is not overly commercialized, full of local life, and most of the core areas are free to explore. 🚞 Transportation: High-speed rail to Changting South Station, half an hour from Longyan. Get around the city by walking + shared e-bikes. 🏨 Accommodation: Guesthouses around the ancient city are 80–130 yuan, and hostel beds are 40–50 yuan—very budget-friendly. 🍜 Food & Drink: Pork kidney soup, braised large intestine, and Tingzhou tofu—most snacks are 8–15 yuan, and a bowl of Hakka rice noodles for 10 yuan will keep you full. 🗓 Simple Itinerary D1: Enter the city, take a night cruise on the Ting River, and walk along the ancient city walls to enjoy the breeze; D2: Explore the old streets of Diantou Street, sit in an old teahouse, and watch traditional crafts; D3: Wander around the surrounding ancient villages and experience the Hakka countryside; D4: Eat your way through the snacks before leaving. 💡 Highlights: No need to buy a bunch of tickets. Just walking along the city walls makes for great photos. Perfect for a slow-paced trip. 📍 Qinzhou, Guangxi | Affordable seaside, avoiding the crowds of Beihai If you want to see the sea, don't just stick to Beihai or Sanya! The seaside in Qinzhou has far fewer people, prices are cut in half, and if you're lucky, you might even encounter Chinese white dolphins. You don't have to worry about being ripped off at seafood restaurants. 🚞 Transportation: High-speed rail to Qinzhou East Station, 1 hour from Nanning. Renting a small e-bike in the city is super convenient for getting around. 🏨 Accommodation: City hotels are just over 100 yuan, and guesthouses near the beach can be found for just over 100 yuan. 🍜 Food & Drink: Seafood noodles are just over 10 yuan, grilled oysters are a few yuan each, and a seafood feast at a food stall costs about 50 yuan per person. 🗓 Simple Itinerary D1: Arrive, explore Qinzhou Old Street, and eat various local snacks; D2: Step on the sand at Xiliwan Beach, watch the sunset, feel the sea breeze, and just relax; D3: Drive/ride along the Sandun Sea Highway and enjoy the coastal breeze; D4: Buy some local seafood specialties before heading home. 💡 Tips: When eating seafood, try to find food stalls crowded with locals and avoid the viral restaurants at the entrance of tourist attractions. None of these four places are suitable for crazy sightseeing or rushing around; they are all about relaxation. A 3–4 day trip costs about 600–900 yuan per person. Traveling doesn't always mean squeezing into popular tourist attractions. Finding a small city, eating local food, and just walking around is a great way to spend a holiday.

Gannan is known as "Little Tibet." With a relatively friendly altitude, you can encounter grasslands, prayer flags, Tibetan villages, and ancient temples without the long flight to Lhasa. September to October is the best time for golden autumn, with gilded grasslands and colorful mountain forests. There are far fewer tourists than in summer, making it perfect for family trips and short, in-depth travel. 🚗 Basic Information: Transportation, Accommodation & Tickets ✅ Transportation: Generally, you start from Lanzhou and take a bus or hire a car/drive to Gannan from Lanzhou West. Attractions are scattered, so hiring a reputable small group tour or a private car is recommended. Mountain roads have many curves, so motion sickness medicine is a must. ✅ Accommodation: Day 1: Stay in Xiahe County, which has complete facilities. Day 2: Stay in a guesthouse in Zhagana Tibetan Village, where the morning clouds and mist are stunning. ✅ Ticket Reference · Labrang Monastery: ¥40 (The surrounding streets are free; tickets are required to enter the main hall) · Zhagana: ¥80 · Langmusi: Kerti Monastery ¥30, Serta Monastery ¥30 (The two monasteries are separate) · Sangke Grassland and Gahai Lake highway viewpoints are free 🗺️ 3-Day, 2-Night Efficient Itinerary Day 1: Lanzhou → Xiahe | Labrang Monastery + Sangke Grassland Morning: Labrang Monastery, the world's largest Tibetan Buddhist academy, featuring the world's longest prayer wheel corridor. 👉 Visiting tips: Walk clockwise along the prayer wheels. Photography is prohibited inside the main hall, and do not step on the threshold. It is quiet and less crowded in the early morning, and you may encounter monks. Afternoon: Sangke Grassland. You can park and take photos right by the free highway. In golden autumn, the grassland is a sea of gold with cattle and sheep scattered about, and you can see the White Stone Cliff in the distance. A casual walk is recommended; high-priced horseback riding is not. Evening: Stay in Xiahe County. Upon arriving at the plateau on the first day, avoid washing your hair or taking a shower to prevent catching a cold, which can trigger altitude sickness. Day 2: Xiahe → Gahai Lake → Zhagana Depart early in the morning for Gahai Lake, a plateau freshwater lake. The water and sky merge into one, with migratory birds resting there—it is quiet and ethereal. Afternoon: Arrive at Zhagana, which means "stone box" in Tibetan, a primitive Tibetan village surrounded by mountains. Take a light hike along the Fairy Beach wooden boardwalk to overlook the entire village from the mountainside. At sunset, the mountains are gilded with golden light, creating a perfect atmosphere. Evening: Stay in a Zhagana Tibetan Village guesthouse. On clear nights, you can see the Milky Way. Day 3: Zhagana → Langmusi → Return Morning: Head to Langmusi, a small town divided between Gansu and Sichuan provinces. The Bailong River flows through the town, earning it the nickname "the Oriental Little Switzerland." You can explore the Namo Grand Canyon for a light hike with clear, flowing streams. Noon: Have a simple lunch in town, then head back. 🍲 Must-Try Gannan Cuisine 1. Hand-grabbed yak meat: Boiled in plain water and dipped in salt and garlic. The meat is firm, milky, and not gamey. 2. Yak yogurt: A local must-try. It is very sour, so add white sugar for a great taste. 3. Tibetan steamed buns: Thin skin, juicy, with yak meat filling. 4. Fern root rice: Ginseng fruit + rice, fragrant, sweet, and soft. 5. Tibetan-style hot pot, highland barley cakes, butter tea (it is recommended to order a small cup for your first try). Prioritize local Tibetan restaurants in the county for meals, as dining inside scenic areas is overpriced. 🧳 Pre-trip Checklist (Autumn Focus) The temperature difference between day and night in Gannan can reach 15°C+. In September, the temperature is about 5–18°C, and in October, the minimum is close to 0°C. ✅ Clothing: Windbreaker/light down jacket, fleece liner, long-sleeved base layer, non-slip hiking shoes; a brightly colored scarf makes for great photos. ✅ Medicine: Motion sickness medicine, stomach medicine, glucose oral liquid, sunscreen, lip balm. The plateau's UV rays are extremely strong; wear sunscreen even on cloudy days. ✅ Other: Thermos, power bank, offline maps, a small amount of cash (signal is poor in some pastoral areas). ⚠️ Tips for Avoiding Pitfalls & Cultural Etiquette 1. Temple etiquette: You must walk clockwise around prayer wheels. Photography of Buddha statues in the main hall is prohibited. Do not step on the threshold. Do not wear shorts or skirts when entering temples. Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals. 2. Plateau reminder: The average altitude is about 3,000m. Most people will not experience severe altitude sickness. Do not run or engage in strenuous exercise, and drink plenty of warm water. 3. When horseback riding on the grassland, be sure to agree on the total price in advance to avoid mid-ride price hikes. Do not feed marmots, as there is a risk of disease. 4. Autumn weather is changeable, so carry rain gear. Try to travel on the Rock Road during the day. 5. Be rational when buying local specialties; do not pay high prices for cordyceps or Tibetan jewelry.

Worried about crowds during National Day? These 6 autumn towns are less crowded and budget-friendly 01 Shannan | Tibet If you want to avoid the crowds during National Day, I'd vote for Shannan. The blue of Yamdrok Lake starts to deepen in late September, looking like a piece of turquoise polished by the wind. ⏰ Arrive at Gangbala Pass before 10:00 AM, before the clouds gather, for the best visibility of the lake. After 3:00 PM, the light becomes harsh, making it easy to squint in portraits. 📍 From Lhasa, take the airport expressway and transfer to the provincial road. A chartered car takes about 5 hours round trip. Shared rides have pickup points at many hostels in downtown Lhasa; remember to confirm the license plate the night before. ⚠️ It's windy at the pass, so wearing a light down jacket is not an exaggeration. Ask for the price before taking photos with the yaks by the lake; it can range from 10 to 20 yuan. Don't wait until after you've taken the photo to pay. Don't try to tough out altitude sickness. Get a good night's sleep beforehand and keep glucose and hot water in the car; it's more effective than Rhodiola. This is suitable for those with average stamina, as there's no hiking required—the scenery is right where you get off the car. 02 Xining | Qinghai Xining is the stomach of the Northwest Loop. Ta'er Monastery and Dongguan Mosque are in Huangzhong District and the east of the city respectively, so don't try to cram them into the same day. ⏰ Enter Ta'er Monastery as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM, when the Butter Sculpture Hall is least crowded. In the afternoon, tour groups swarm in, and the sound of guides drowns out the chanting. 🍜 After visiting Ta'er Monastery, head back to the city and grab a bowl of liangpi and tianpei at Mazhong Food Mansion on Mojie Street—you'll be full for just over 10 yuan. For the hand-grabbed mutton next to Dongguan Mosque, it's sold by weight, so ask for the price before sitting down. 📍 Dongguan Mosque is closed to tourists on Fridays for Jumu'ah. Go on a weekday evening to see the sunset hitting the dome. Women should remember to bring a shawl; they are available for rent at the entrance. The altitude in downtown Xining is 2,200 meters, which most people don't react to. However, don't wash your hair or take a shower as soon as you arrive; take it easy for the first night. A combination of public transport and taxis is the most budget-friendly; a Didi ride between attractions is only around 20 yuan. 03 Longnan | Gansu Longnan is an outlier in Gansu, full of greenery. At Wenxian Tianchi and Guan'egou, the leaves are just starting to change color during National Day, and there are far fewer people than at Jiuzhaigou. I suggest setting aside a full day for Guan'egou. ⏰ Enter the valley at 7:30 AM, take the sightseeing bus to the very end, and then walk back along the boardwalk—it's all downhill, which saves your knees. 📍 Wenxian Tianchi is on a different route, and it's a 3-hour drive on winding mountain roads from downtown Longnan. If you get carsick, take medicine beforehand; there are so many curves you'll question your life choices. 🍜 At the farmhouses near the valley entrance, the stir-fried bracken with cured meat and potato mash cost about 40 yuan per person. For accommodation, choose Dangchang County; a standard room is just over 100 yuan, which is half the price of staying inside the valley. ⚠️ Signal in Guan'egou is intermittent, so download offline maps in advance. The boardwalk is slippery, so sneakers are more reliable than flat-soled shoes. If you're bringing elderly family members, take the sightseeing bus to the end and just walk the flat section—that's enough to see. Of these 8 places, Shannan and Karamay are the most weather-dependent, so keep a close eye on the forecast before you go. Quanzhou and Jingdezhen are the least demanding; you can just buy a ticket and go. Where are you planning to go for National Day? Let me know in the comments, and I'll help you check if your route makes sense.

Don't crowd into popular big cities for your October trip! It's packed, prices double, and the experience is poor—it's really not worth it. I've put together a 4-day, 4-city ultimate reverse budget travel route, focusing on hidden gems, fewer crowds, authentic vibes, and super low costs. You can easily enjoy this on a 3K monthly salary. No need for "special forces" style rushing; the whole trip is relaxing and healing. Students and workers, just go for it! ✅ 💡 My real travel philosophy A truly comfortable trip never relies on spending a fortune. These 4 cities are severely underrated hidden gems, with zero over-commercialization, no tourist traps, friendly locals, and amazing prices. October is early autumn, the scenery is clear and comfortable. Avoid the crowds, use the lowest budget, and experience the purest travel joy. 📅 Day 1 Hunan Hongjiang | Immersive tour of the Ming and Qing Ancient Commercial City 📍 Location: Huaihua · Hongjiang Ancient Commercial City 🌟 Core highlight: Free to visit! A real-life "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" Unlike cookie-cutter renovated ancient towns, this place retains the original flavor of a thousand-year-old commercial port. After 7:00 PM, lanterns light up the ancient alleys, creating a perfect atmosphere. You can hear authentic Chenhe opera everywhere—gentle and healing. Wake up early to stroll the alleys, watch local grandmas cook oil tea, full of life, far from the hustle and bustle. 🍜 Super high-value food ▪️ Lao Zhang's Rice Tofu | CNY 5/bowl, flavorful red oil, sour and spicy, very authentic ▪️ Li Ji Blood Cake Duck | CNY 30 for a small portion, crispy sticky rice and duck blood, a local secret ▪️ Handmade Oil Tea | CNY 10/bowl, warms the body in autumn/winter 🏡 Money-saving accommodation guide Stay in a traditional ancient city "Yinzi" house homestay, only CNY 120/night, with a retro patio. The host is super thoughtful and offers free flashlight rentals, making it very safe to walk the alleys at night. 📅 Day 2 Guangxi Jingxi | Ink-wash landscape secret on the China-Vietnam border 📍 Location: Jingxi · Equan + Quyang Lake 🌟 Core highlight: CNY 50 to unlock a landscape painting comparable to Guilin A niche treasure hidden on the China-Vietnam border, the landscape is beautiful, sparsely populated, and incredibly tranquil. It is recommended to enter the park before 7:00 AM to avoid the crowds. The 15-hole ancient bridge shrouded in morning mist and water buffalo strolling leisurely on the lake make every shot look like a wallpaper. You can rent a bamboo raft at Quyang Lake for CNY 20/hour for an immersive view of the green mountains and clear water—the atmosphere is amazing. 🍜 Border affordable snacks ▪️ Vietnamese rolled rice noodles | CNY 5 for two, thin skin and full filling, super delicious with secret yellow peel sauce ▪️ Special sour snacks | CNY 5/box, green mango and pineapple with chili salt, refreshing 🚗 Money-saving transport tips Take a bus from Hongjiang to Huaihua, then transfer to high-speed rail directly to Jingxi—half the price of a direct ticket, great value. 📅 Day 3 Jiangxi Qianshan | Authentic ancient town full of local life 📍 Location: Qianshan · Hekou Ancient Town + Liansi Paper Workshop 🌟 Core highlight: Experience intangible cultural heritage slow life for just over CNY 10 No noisy shops, no sky-high prices—just pure, authentic local life that's healing and comfortable. You can visit the intangible cultural heritage Liansi Paper Workshop for free; for just CNY 10 in material costs, you can take home the rice paper you made yourself—a great souvenir. Stroll along the thousand-meter Xinjiang floating bridge in the evening and watch the sunset dye the river red—gentle, healing, and with an excellent atmosphere. 🍜 The lowest-priced local food in the city ▪️ Chen Ji Tang Fen | CNY 3/bowl of fresh noodles in bone broth, add CNY 1 for a braised egg—filling and delicious ▪️ Lantern cake | CNY 1/piece, freshly fried, crispy outside and tender inside—a local childhood favorite 🏡 Accommodation recommendation Riverside inn in the ancient town, only CNY 80/night. You can listen to pipa tunes from the street on your balcony—the atmosphere is top-tier. 📅 Day 4 Gansu Longnan | Autumn colorful forests in the "Jiangnan of Longnan" 📍 Location: Dangchang · Guan'egou + Bikou Ancient Town 🌟 Core highlight: CNY 100 to explore a niche "Little Jiuzhai" In October, Longnan is at its most beautiful with colorful forests! The Guan'egou joint ticket, including the sightseeing bus, is only CNY 100. With layered forests, waterfalls, streams, and blue pools, the autumn scenery rivals major 5A scenic spots. The mountain air is fresh, and the trails are flat and easy to walk—perfect for a slow hike to clear your mind and heal all your work fatigue. ✨ The most healing moments of the journey The biggest takeaway from this budget trip isn't the scenery, but the unexpected kindness. Encountering friendly interactions with villagers at the border, being fed a hot sweet potato by a local grandma in the ancient town, and discovering natural wild fun in the mountains. The meaning of niche travel is meeting the purest beauty at a low cost. ✅ Travel summary 4 days, 4 cities, spanning 4 provinces Ancient town life, border landscapes, intangible cultural heritage, and autumn colorful forests—all checked off in one go Low cost, no tourist traps, and uncrowded If you want an easy trip in October, this reverse budget travel route is top-tier!

Where should I go on a poor trip in October? 8️⃣ low-consumption town, few people and beautiful scenery do not step into the pit 01 Jiangmen | Guangdong The heat has just faded in Jiangmen in October, the rice fields are starting to turn golden, and riding the wind downstairs with a little coolness will not stick to you after walking all day. The Kaiping Mound Cultural Tourism Area is the core destination, with Zili Village and Majianglong the two areas worth spending the most time. The composition of the moat with rice fields is the fullest in mid-late October. 🚄 Take the bus from Jiangmen Station to Kaiping city for about an hour, then change the township bus to Zili Village, the whole journey does not cost 15 dollars, than taking a taxi save a meal money. The joint tickets for the scenic spots include Liyuan and Zili Village. They have been bought from official channels in advance. The queue to buy tickets on site is still not short after the National Day. ⚠️ The stairs inside the barracks are narrow and sloping. Wearing skirts or slippers will be very inconvenient. The elderly and children should go upstairs slowly. Don't look for restaurants at the entrance of the scenic spot at noon. A portion of yellow eel rice can be priced at 60 or 70 dollars. In street shops in the direction of the city, you can eat your fill within 30 dollars. 🍜 Back in the city in the evening, go to Tung Tung Road area to find cha-fan and beef brisket noodles, ten dollars, is the daily price of locals. There is still enough sunshine in October. After 4:30 pm, the light slopes down, and the exterior facade of the Cinema Tower is the most beautiful. 02 Quanzhou|Fujian October in Quanzhou is the most comfortable time of the year, with the wind blowing from the seaside, around twenty-five degrees during the day, and walking down the street without sweating. Qingyuan Mountain is suitable for morning walking. The road at Laojunyan is not long. The top of the mountain overlooks the whole city. Even people with average physical strength can finish the hike. 📍After going down the mountain, go straight to Kaiyuan Temple. The East and West Pagodas are very clear in the light and shadow in the afternoon. The temple does not charge tickets, but be aware of the opening hours. The rock carvings of Quanzhou cliffs are scattered along the Qingyuan Mountain. You don't have to look for them, you can see a few places along the way. The ancient city of Chongwu is far from the city, so it is suitable to arrange a separate half-day. The wind by the sea October is no longer small, bring a thin coat. The sea view is free from the ancient city wall. There is a fee to enter the stone carving garden. If you are on a budget, walking around the city wall and the beach is enough. 🍜 Don't just look at celebrity shops when you eat. The alleys in West Street have noodle paste and asparagus frozen, and a bowl of chicken costs a few dollars. ⚠️ West Street holiday crowded, want to take pictures recommended to arrive before 8 am, soft light, stalls are also just open. 03 Nanchang|Jiangxi The autumn season in Nanchang in October has just begun. The wind is strong along the Zhenjiang River. The temperature difference between morning and evening can reach 10 degrees. It is just right to add a thin shirt outside with short sleeves. The Tengwang Pavilion tourist area is a must-visit, but don't just rush to go there. Sunset time in October is around 5:30, so go to the pavilion an hour in advance. ⏰ It is recommended to enter the park at 4 pm, first stroll the bottom floor exhibition hall, then go up one floor, just in time to catch dusk. Tickets can be bought online in advance or on-site, but queues wear out patience during peak season. ⚠️ The wind is strong on the porch, hats and scarves are easily blown away, so hold your phone securely when taking pictures. The restaurants around the scenic area are a bit expensive. It's a ten-minute walk towards Yungmen Road. Mixed noodles and crock pot soup together cost less than $15. It's a local's daily configuration. The nightclub light show at Teng Wang Pavilion is charged separately. If you are on a budget, you can skip it. You can still see the night view while walking along the riverside trail. In October, the water level of the Zhenjiang River is stable. The bike path along the river is suitable for cycling in the evening. A car rental costs a few dollars an hour. 04 Linfen | Shanxi Linfen has become significantly cooler in October. We need to wear coats in the morning and evening, and we can still stay warm under the sun at noon. The Hongdong Big Locust Tree Root Seeking and Worshiping Ancestral Garden is suitable for morning visits. The park is large and takes two or three hours to walk. Wear comfortable shoes. The Yellow River Hukou Waterfall tourist area is the highlight, the water volume in October is not small yet, but it is more convergent than in the summer, there is less water mist on the side of the waterfall, and the photos are clearer. ⚠️ The mouth of the pot is windy and cool. Be sure to bring a windproof jacket when you go in October. The shore is wet and slippery. Do not cross the fence. Cloud Hill can be scheduled for another day, the red leaves on the mountain begin to change color in mid-late October, a rare time of year. The three points are scattered in different directions. It is not recommended to rush them all in one day. Accommodation in Linfen city is cheap, and a bid room is just over a hundred dollars. 🚄 Linfen West Station has a tourist bus to Hukou, which is much cheaper than chartered bus. 🍜 In the city, beef meatball noodles and dumplings are about 10 dollars a bowl, enough to fill you up. 05 Ningbo | Zhejiang In October, the osmanthus blooms in Ningbo, and the whole city is sweet. The area around Tianyi Pavilion and Yuehu is the most suitable for slow walking. Tianyi Pavilion is a library, the courtyard is not big but durable, Moon Lake Park is free, there are locals doing Tai Chi in the morning, the atmosphere is very relaxing. 📍 Walking from Moon Lake towards Drum Tower, old houses and coffee shops are mixed along the way, suitable for afternoon kill time. Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area is in the direction of Fenghua, which takes half a day to a day. In October, the mountains start to turn yellow. Taking the scenic transportation car saves effort than walking. There are far fewer tourists in Qiantong Ancient Town than in Wuzhen, and you can almost enjoy the alley alone if you go on weekdays in October. ⚠️ Some old houses in the ancient town have to be charged separately. Ask before entering. Don't be fooled by buying joint tickets. 🍜 Ningbo dumplings and year cakes are local daily routines, and street shops are half cheaper than inside scenic spots. Fishing has just started in the East Sea in October. Seafood noodles are worth a try, but remember to ask for price before ordering to avoid embarrassment when paying the bill. 06 Haidong | Qinghai It's autumn in Haidong in October. It's 10 degrees during the day and close to zero in the morning and evening. You have to bring a down jacket. Mutual aid Tu Homeland Garden is suitable for morning visits, the park showcases Tu architecture and folk customs, the yard in October is quiet and there are not many tourists. Youning Temple is located in the mountain to the north of Mutual Aid. The trees on October Mountain are starting to change color. The temple is quiet and suitable for slow walking. ⚠️ In plateau areas October UV rays are still strong, do not skimp on sunscreen, the wind is also very hard, scarf hat ready. 🚄 Convenient shuttle bus from Xining to Haidong, cheap fare, but not frequent, check the time before departure. Accommodation in Haidong is concentrated in Ping An and Ledu. October is not the peak season, so a hundred dollars or so is a good place to stay. 🍜 Locally eat hand-caught lamb and boiled tea, the portion is sufficient, two people order a portion of meat and main course is enough. The wind will be strong in the direction of Qinghai Lake in October. If you are going there, pay attention to keeping warm and road conditions. The latest information shall prevail. 07 Bayingoleng|Xinjiang Bayin Guoleng in October is the season of Huyang, Tarim Huyang Forest Park enters the best viewing period in mid-late October, golden, it is the most worthwhile time of the year to visit. The Bayinbrook Grassland is cold at this time, the grass is turning yellow, and the winding sunset is still worth waiting for. ⚠️ Taklimakan Desert October daytime is still OK, night cooling fast, camping to bring enough warm equipment, wind and sand, cameras and mobile phones pay attention to dustproof. Huyanglin Park is large in area. It is recommended to take a scenic car with limited walking range. 🚄 Korla is a collection center, to Hu Yanglin and the desert are from here, shuttle buses and carpools are available, ask the price in advance. October is the end of the peak season and accommodation will be cheaper than in the summer, but popular times still have to be booked earlier. 🍜Korla's fragrant pears October is the time, roadside buying is cheaper than scenic spots. Eat bibimbap and baked buns, and you can eat enough for ten dollars. The daylight hours are shorter in October, so don’t schedule your schedule too often and leave some time on the road. 08 Yunnan | Gansu In October, Yunnan is a rare wetland in Gansu. The autumn colors of Guangugou are the strongest in mid-to-late October. The red leaves and stream water make walking on the canyon very comfortable. Tianchi in Wen County is at a high altitude and the temperature is low in October. Check the road conditions and openness before going. 📍 Official Goose Valley tickets and sightseeing cars are counted separately, the budget can only walk the core section, the scenery is concentrated in the front few kilometers. ⚠️ Heavy moisture in the ditch, the canyon may slip, wear non-slip shoes, wear a waterproof jacket. Tianchi in Wen County is suitable for self-driving or charter access. Public transportation is inconvenient and multi-person carpooling is more affordable. Rainfall in southern Yunnan may still be heavy in October. Check the weather forecast before setting off and be careful on mountain roads after the rain. 🍜Yunnan eat noodle skin and potato stir-fry, a few dollars a portion, sour and spicy appetizer. Accommodation in the city is cheap, October is not a popular schedule, there are options for tens to hundreds of dollars. Low overall spending, suitable for those on a budget and want to see the autumn colors. When traveling on a budget in October, choosing the right place is more important than saving money. The barracks in Jiangmen, the Hukou in Linfen, and the Hu Yang in Bayin Guoling are the three most worthy of priority arrangement out of these eight. Talk about where you plan to go in October in the comments section. Where should I go on a poor trip in October? 8️⃣ low-consumption town, few people and beautiful scenery do not step into the pit 01 Jiangmen | Guangdong The heat has just faded in Jiangmen in October, the rice fields are starting to turn golden, and riding the wind downstairs with a little coolness will not stick to you after walking all day. The Kaiping Mound Cultural Tourism Area is the core destination, with Zili Village and Majianglong the two areas worth spending the most time. The composition of the moat with rice fields is the fullest in mid-late October. 🚄 Take the bus from Jiangmen Station to Kaiping city for about an hour, then change the township bus to Zili Village, the whole journey does not cost 15 dollars, than taking a taxi save a meal money. The joint tickets for the scenic spots include Liyuan and Zili Village. They have been bought from official channels in advance. The queue to buy tickets on site is still not short after the National Day. ⚠️ The stairs inside the barracks are narrow and sloping. Wearing skirts or slippers will be very inconvenient. The elderly and children should go upstairs slowly. Don't look for restaurants at the entrance of the scenic spot at noon. A portion of yellow eel rice can be priced at 60 or 70 dollars. In street shops in the direction of the city, you can eat your fill within 30 dollars. 🍜 Back in the city in the evening, go to Tung Tung Road area to find cha-fan and beef brisket noodles, ten dollars, is the daily price of locals. There is still enough sunshine in October. After 4:30 pm, the light slopes down, and the exterior facade of the Cinema Tower is the most beautiful. 02 Quanzhou|Fujian October in Quanzhou is the most comfortable time of the year, with the wind blowing from the seaside, around twenty-five degrees during the day, and walking down the street without sweating. Qingyuan Mountain is suitable for morning walking. The road at Laojunyan is not long. The top of the mountain overlooks the whole city. Even people with average physical strength can finish the hike. 📍After going down the mountain, go straight to Kaiyuan Temple. The East and West Pagodas are very clear in the light and shadow in the afternoon. The temple does not charge tickets, but be aware of the opening hours. The rock carvings of Quanzhou cliffs are scattered along the Qingyuan Mountain. You don't have to look for them, you can see a few places along the way. The ancient city of Chongwu is far from the city, so it is suitable to arrange a separate half-day. The wind by the sea October is no longer small, bring a thin coat. The sea view is free from the ancient city wall. There is a fee to enter the stone carving garden. If you are on a budget, walking around the city wall and the beach is enough. 🍜 Don't just look at celebrity shops when you eat. The alleys in West Street have noodle paste and asparagus frozen, and a bowl of chicken costs a few dollars. ⚠️ West Street holiday crowded, want to take pictures recommended to arrive before 8 am, soft light, stalls are also just open. 03 Nanchang|Jiangxi The autumn season in Nanchang in October has just begun. The wind is strong along the Zhenjiang River. The temperature difference between morning and evening can reach 10 degrees. It is just right to add a thin shirt outside with short sleeves. The Tengwang Pavilion tourist area is a must-visit, but don't just rush to go there. Sunset time in October is around 5:30, so go to the pavilion an hour in advance. ⏰ It is recommended to enter the park at 4 pm, first stroll the bottom floor exhibition hall, then go up one floor, just in time to catch dusk. Tickets can be bought online in advance or on-site, but queues wear out patience during peak season. ⚠️ The wind is strong on the porch, hats and scarves are easily blown away, so hold your phone securely when taking pictures. The restaurants around the scenic area are a bit expensive. It's a ten-minute walk towards Yungmen Road. Mixed noodles and crock pot soup together cost less than $15. It's a local's daily configuration. The nightclub light show at Teng Wang Pavilion is charged separately. If you are on a budget, you can skip it. You can still see the night view while walking along the riverside trail. In October, the water level of the Zhenjiang River is stable. The bike path along the river is suitable for cycling in the evening. A car rental costs a few dollars an hour. 04 Linfen | Shanxi Linfen has become significantly cooler in October. We need to wear coats in the morning and evening, and we can still stay warm under the sun at noon. The Hongdong Big Locust Tree Root Seeking and Worshiping Ancestral Garden is suitable for morning visits. The park is large and takes two or three hours to walk. Wear comfortable shoes. The Yellow River Hukou Waterfall tourist area is the highlight, the water volume in October is not small yet, but it is more convergent than in the summer, there is less water mist on the side of the waterfall, and the photos are clearer. ⚠️ The mouth of the pot is windy and cool. Be sure to bring a windproof jacket when you go in October. The shore is wet and slippery. Do not cross the fence. Cloud Hill can be scheduled for another day, the red leaves on the mountain begin to change color in mid-late October, a rare time of year. The three points are scattered in different directions. It is not recommended to rush them all in one day. Accommodation in Linfen city is cheap, and a bid room is just over a hundred dollars. 🚄 Linfen West Station has a tourist bus to Hukou, which is much cheaper than chartered bus. 🍜 In the city, beef meatball noodles and dumplings are about 10 dollars a bowl, enough to fill you up. 05 Ningbo | Zhejiang In October, the osmanthus blooms in Ningbo, and the whole city is sweet. The area around Tianyi Pavilion and Yuehu is the most suitable for slow walking. Tianyi Pavilion is a library, the courtyard is not big but durable, Moon Lake Park is free, there are locals doing Tai Chi in the morning, the atmosphere is very relaxing. 📍 Walking from Moon Lake towards Drum Tower, old houses and coffee shops are mixed along the way, suitable for afternoon kill time. Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area is in the direction of Fenghua, which takes half a day to a day. In October, the mountains start to turn yellow. Taking the scenic transportation car saves effort than walking. There are far fewer tourists in Qiantong Ancient Town than in Wuzhen, and you can almost enjoy the alley alone if you go on weekdays in October. ⚠️ Some old houses in the ancient town have to be charged separately. Ask before entering. Don't be fooled by buying joint tickets. 🍜 Ningbo dumplings and year cakes are local daily routines, and street shops are half cheaper than inside scenic spots. Fishing has just started in the East Sea in October. Seafood noodles are worth a try, but remember to ask for price before ordering to avoid embarrassment when paying the bill. 06 Haidong | Qinghai It's autumn in Haidong in October. It's 10 degrees during the day and close to zero in the morning and evening. You have to bring a down jacket. Mutual aid Tu Homeland Garden is suitable for morning visits, the park showcases Tu architecture and folk customs, the yard in October is quiet and there are not many tourists. Youning Temple is located in the mountain to the north of Mutual Aid. The trees on October Mountain are starting to change color. The temple is quiet and suitable for slow walking. ⚠️ In plateau areas October UV rays are still strong, do not skimp on sunscreen, the wind is also very hard, scarf hat ready. 🚄 Convenient shuttle bus from Xining to Haidong, cheap fare, but not frequent, check the time before departure. Accommodation in Haidong is concentrated in Ping An and Ledu. October is not the peak season, so a hundred dollars or so is a good place to stay. 🍜 Locally eat hand-caught lamb and boiled tea, the portion is sufficient, two people order a portion of meat and main course is enough. The wind will be strong in the direction of Qinghai Lake in October. If you are going there, pay attention to keeping warm and road conditions. The latest information shall prevail. 07 Bayingoleng|Xinjiang Bayin Guoleng in October is the season of Huyang, Tarim Huyang Forest Park enters the best viewing period in mid-late October, golden, it is the most worthwhile time of the year to visit. The Bayinbrook Grassland is cold at this time, the grass is turning yellow, and the winding sunset is still worth waiting for. ⚠️ Taklimakan Desert October daytime is still OK, night cooling fast, camping to bring enough warm equipment, wind and sand, cameras and mobile phones pay attention to dustproof. Huyanglin Park is large in area. It is recommended to take a scenic car with limited walking range. 🚄 Korla is a collection center, to Hu Yanglin and the desert are from here, shuttle buses and carpools are available, ask the price in advance. October is the end of the peak season and accommodation will be cheaper than in the summer, but popular times still have to be booked earlier. 🍜Korla's fragrant pears October is the time, roadside buying is cheaper than scenic spots. Eat bibimbap and baked buns, and you can eat enough for ten dollars. The daylight hours are shorter in October, so don’t schedule your schedule too often and leave some time on the road. 08 Yunnan | Gansu In October, Yunnan is a rare wetland in Gansu. The autumn colors of Guangugou are the strongest in mid-to-late October. The red leaves and stream water make walking on the canyon very comfortable. Tianchi in Wen County is at a high altitude and the temperature is low in October. Check the road conditions and openness before going. 📍 Official Goose Valley tickets and sightseeing cars are counted separately, the budget can only walk the core section, the scenery is concentrated in the front few kilometers. ⚠️ Heavy moisture in the ditch, the canyon may slip, wear non-slip shoes, wear a waterproof jacket. Tianchi in Wen County is suitable for self-driving or charter access. Public transportation is inconvenient and multi-person carpooling is more affordable. Rainfall in southern Yunnan may still be heavy in October. Check the weather forecast before setting off and be careful on mountain roads after the rain. 🍜Yunnan eat noodle skin and potato stir-fry, a few dollars a portion, sour and spicy appetizer. Accommodation in the city is cheap, October is not a popular schedule, there are options for tens to hundreds of dollars. Low overall spending, suitable for those on a budget and want to see the autumn colors. When traveling on a budget in October, choosing the right place is more important than saving money. The barracks in Jiangmen, the Hukou in Linfen, and the Hu Yang in Bayin Guoling are the three most worthy of priority arrangement out of these eight. Talk about where you plan to go in October in the comments section.

Leaving from Chengdu, head north on the G75 Lanhai Expressway through Longnan into Gansu. Spend the night in Tianshui or Dingxi, then pass through Baiyin into Ningxia the following day. The 1,080km journey allows for a relaxed two-day trip to Shapotou, Zhongwei. For a more scenic route, start from Chongqing and take the Great Qinghai-Gansu Loop: visit Lanzhou, Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, Dachaidan, Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, and Zhangye to experience salt lakes, Gobi, Yardang landforms, and deserts all in seven days. If Alxa is your destination, flying from Chengdu to Yinchuan and renting a car is the easiest option. Drive straight towards Wuhai Lake, where you can pull over for photos along the desert highway and maybe even spot a herd of camels. Be aware that signal is poor in Gobi areas; offline maps and a full tank of gas are absolute musts. 

Slow National Day trips with parents: these 5️⃣ places are easy and worry-free 01 Longnan | Gansu When you travel with your parents, the last thing you want is back-and-forth between attractions. The Longnan route is good because driving times between spots are manageable and you can set the pace. ⏰ In the morning, go to Wenchuan Tianchi first. The altitude is high, so fog clears slowly and the lake only brightens after 10 AM. The lakeside boardwalk is gentle; walking half the loop takes about 40 minutes, and you can rest back in the car if tired. 📍 From the Tianchi viewpoint, walk 200 meters to the left to find a fir forest with no crowds for photos. In the afternoon, head to Guan'egou. The ravine is cool and feels like air-conditioning in summer. The sightseeing shuttle to the core area still leaves an uphill section; if knees are weak, just do the stretch from Lurenzhai to Tongtianmen. 🚄 Driving between the two spots is about 1.5 hours. Don't trust the navigation that says 40 minutes. Stay in Dangchang town. Don't be tempted by guesthouses at the attraction entrance—nights are cold and hot water can be unreliable. National Day rooms are scarce, so book 10 days ahead. Tickets and shuttle policies follow the official announcements on the day. 02 Aba | Sichuan Jiuzhaigou, Huanglong, and Mount Siguniang crammed into one trip will tire your parents out. My suggestion is to cut one out. Put Jiuzhaigou first. ⏰ Arrive at the valley entrance before 7 AM and take the first shuttle straight up to Chang Hai, then work your way down to save effort. Spend time at Five-Flower Lake and Mirror Lake, and take a quick photo at Nuorilang Waterfall before moving on. ⚠️ Lunch inside the valley is expensive and not great. Bring bread and hot water. Huanglong is at a higher altitude; the colorful pools are beautiful, but after the cable car there is a boardwalk section and older travelers may get short of breath. Mount Siguniang is better viewed from afar. Shuangqiaogou's sightseeing bus goes right in, so it uses less energy. Stay in Zhangzha town, which is close to the valley entrance so you won't need to rush in the morning. National Day prices can double, so don't look for last-minute rooms. Don't force yourself through altitude sickness—take Rhodiola beforehand and you can buy oxygen canisters in town. 03 Shangrao | Jiangxi Shangrao's attractions are spread out—Huangling, Sanqing Mountain, and Guifeng are in different directions. Split them over two days; don't try to finish them in one. For Huangling to see the autumn drying displays, take the cable car before 9 AM to avoid crowds and get better light. At Tianjie, try the imperial chrysanthemum before buying—prices vary wildly. ⚠️ The drying displays are staged props; don't expect to see whole mountains of real drying grain. At Sanqing Mountain, do the Nanqingyuan loop. The Giant Python Emerging from the Mountain and Goddess Peak are the highlights. Cable car queues in peak season can take an hour, so go early. Guifeng is less crowded and features Danxia landforms—good if you want to avoid crowds. Wuyuan Jiangwan is more cultural; stroll slowly and see the old residences. Stay in Wuyuan county seat or at the foot of Sanqing Mountain depending on where you want to go the next day. 🚄 From Shangrao station to Huangling is about a 1-hour drive. Mountain roads have many curves, so bring motion sickness medicine if needed. 04 Zhangzhou | Fujian On the Zhangzhou route, the tulou and the ancient town are close, and the volcanic island is by the sea—it's best to split into two days: one for the mountains, one for the sea. Yunshuiyao ancient town is quiet in the morning—arrive before 8 AM to enjoy the banyan tree without crowds. Cobbled streets make wheelchairs hard to push, so wear non-slip shoes and have older travelers go slowly. In the Tianluokeng tulou group in Nanjing, the "four dishes and one soup" viewing platform is a must, and Yuchanglou's lean is amusing. At the coastal volcanic national geopark see the basalt columns. It's windy by the sea—bring a jacket. In Zhangzhou old town, try four-fruit soup and lu mian; they're about half the price of food in the tourist areas. Staying in a Yunshuiyao guesthouse is a great experience but it's humid. If you want comfort, stay in Zhangzhou city and drive there the next day. Check official announcements for ticket reservations—National Day limits visitor numbers. 05 Yueyang | Hunan Yueyang Tower, Dongting Lake, and Junshan Island form a line. One day is enough, but don't rush. ⏰ Climb Yueyang Tower in the morning—enter when it opens at 8 AM to avoid heat and crowds. The third floor offers the best view of Dongting Lake. ⚠️ Free-entry activities for memorizing "Record of Yueyang Tower" will probably have long lines during National Day. Don't spend two hours to save the ticket fee. Afterward, walk along Dongting Lake to Bianhe Street and have a bowl of Yueyang rice noodles with a tiger-skin egg. In the afternoon take the boat to Junshan Island; the island has tea plantations and spotted bamboo, and a full walk takes about 2 hours. Boat schedules are fixed—note the return times. Stay in the Yueyang Tower area to see the lake at night. 🚄 A taxi from Yueyang East station to the attractions takes about 20 minutes. If you're with older people, don't rush up the stairs—the indoor steps are narrow. 06 Sanya | Hainan For taking parents to Sanya, the core rule is simple: avoid sunburn and avoid exhaustion. Pick two or three attractions and that's enough. ⏰ Arrive at Yalong Bay by 7:30 AM. The beach is clean and the sun isn't too strong yet. Rent a lounger so your parents can sit and watch the sea while you wade. Tianya Haijiao is basically two rocks—it's optional and the ticket isn't cheap. Wuzhizhou Island has many water activities, but the boat transfer can be rough for older people—take motion sickness medicine in advance. Daxiao Dongtian is quiet, and the vegetarian meals at Nanshan are worth trying. Stay in Yalong Bay or Dadonghai. Don't stay in Haitang Bay—it's too far and dining options are inconvenient. 🍜 Buy seafood at the First Market and have it processed there, but remember to ask the price before weighing. Hotels surge during National Day—book early. 07 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Chifeng is for parents who want to see grasslands and stone formations. The Hashhatu Stone Forest tourism area is the focus—other spots can be skipped. ⏰ Enter the stone forest after 4 PM when the light hits at an angle and the rocks show texture. The route is all boardwalk and takes about 2 hours to complete; the slopes are gentle and manageable for older people. ⚠️ There's no shade in the park—bring hats and water. The grassland is windy with a temperature difference of over 10 degrees between morning and night—pack a light down jacket. 🍜 Back in Chifeng city, try duijia and shouba meat; the food is more authentic than at the attraction entrance. Stay in Chifeng city for better accommodations; it's about a 2-hour drive to the stone forest. 🚄 Car rental at Chifeng station is convenient. By National Day the grassland is already cool and not the lush green you might expect—be prepared. 08 Jiaxing | Zhejiang Wuzhen or Xitang—pick one. Visiting both makes the scenery feel repetitive and tires your legs. Wuzhen West is well managed—enter after 5 PM when the lights come on, and staying inside the scenic area helps you avoid crowds. ⚠️ Wuzhen East is full of tour groups during the day and can be skipped. Xitang feels more like everyday life—walk part of the misty corridor and find a riverside teahouse to sit in. 🍜 Have a Jiaxing zongzi for breakfast—try the fresh pork filling. Bring back some braised duck and marinated eggs. Staying in a guesthouse inside West Scenic Area is pricier but convenient; outside the area it's cheaper and a 10-minute walk. 🚄 From Jiaxing South station to Wuzhen is about 40 minutes. There are many stone streets so luggage wheels will rattle—have older travelers wear soft-soled shoes. Of these eight places, the most worry-free are Jiaxing and Yueyang, and the most photogenic are Aba and Shangrao. For National Day don't try to do too much—one spot per day. Your parents' smiles are more important than check-in photos. Where will you take them first?

I spent 3 days in Longnan, and it was breathtakingly beautiful. It's not an exaggeration to call it the "Little Jiangnan of Gansu." The landscape is lush and gentle, with dense vegetation. You don't need to rush or hike aggressively; the pace is slow and relaxed, making it perfect for those who love natural scenery. For accommodation, I recommend staying in Wudu District for the first night. It's convenient for dining and shopping, serving as a great base for your trip. Day 1: Wudu to Wenxian Tianchi, a leisurely alpine lake experience Leave Wudu early for Wenxian Tianchi. The mountain roads have many curves, so allow plenty of time for the drive. Once you arrive at the scenic area, be sure to take the sightseeing shuttle up the mountain; there's no need to hike the steep roads. You have 2 options for exploring: for a relaxing time, take a boat tour of the lake, which lasts about 30 minutes. The water is emerald green, surrounded by mountains, and the mist makes it look ethereal. If you prefer walking, take the gentle wooden boardwalk around the lake. You don't need to complete the entire loop; just pick a scenic section to stroll, stop, and take photos. 3 hours is plenty of time, so you won't tire yourself out. Have a simple local meal at a farmhouse restaurant near Tianchi for lunch, then head back to Wudu in the afternoon. In the evening, visit Yaozhaigou, which is very close to the city. It features babbling brooks and lush trees. Take a casual stroll along the trails, and sit down to rest whenever you're tired—there's no rush. In the evening, return to Wudu city center to try local dishes like mianpi (cold noodles) and yangyu jiaotuan (mashed potato paste), and explore the night market to soak in the local atmosphere. Day 2: In-depth tour of Guan'egou This is the highlight of the trip. Start early and head to Guan'egou. Prioritize visiting Guanzhugou, where you'll find a continuous series of emerald pools and waterfalls—every step offers a new view. Be sure to take the sightseeing shuttle to save a lot of energy. Explore at a leisurely pace, allowing 4–5 hours. The temperature in the mountains is low, so bring rain gear and non-slip shoes. Have lunch at a farmhouse restaurant near the scenic area. After you're done, stay in Dangchang County for the night instead of rushing back to Wudu. Day 3: Cultural exploration in Dangchang and a relaxing return trip Spend the morning taking a slow stroll through the Hadapu Memorial Hall. It's free to visit, quiet, and solemn; plan for about 1 hour. Afterward, wander around the old street of Dangchang and buy some local souvenirs like Sichuan peppercorns or honey. After lunch, you can head back at a leisurely pace. With plenty of time, you won't have to rush. Travel tips Longnan has many mountain roads, so slow down and drive carefully on curves. The weather in the mountains is changeable, so carry rain gear with you. There is a large temperature difference between day and night, so bring a light jacket even if you visit in the summer. Many attractions are in the mountains, so be sure to wear comfortable, non-slip sneakers. The local food tends to be sour and spicy; if you have a sensitive stomach, remember to mention this when ordering. The overall route doesn't involve high-intensity hiking. It covers alpine lakes, caves, canyons, and cultural sites without requiring you to visit too many spots in one day, making it both comfortable and great for photos.