Based on my personal experience traveling in the opposite direction from August to October, these places are less crowded.
01 Nyingchi | Tibet
From August to October, the rainy season in Nyingchi has just ended, and the air still carries the moist scent of vegetation. I recommend staying in Bomi; in the morning, opening your window reveals snow-capped mountains and the misty Parlung Tsangpo River—more worthwhile than any hotel with a view.
🚄 Now that the high-speed train from Lhasa to Nyingchi is open, it only takes a little over three hours, saving you a whole day of mountain travel.
In autumn, the waters of Basum Tso turn a deep blue-green. After 3 pm, the sunlight shines obliquely, making the lake surface shimmer like shattered glass. Remember to walk along the lake for a while, don't just stop at the viewpoint; the further in you go, the fewer people there are, and the calmer the wind becomes. I've traveled this section of the Yunnan-Tibet Highway twice. In October, the colorful forests aren't fully red yet, but the interplay of yellow and green is quite beautiful. The Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon is best visited on the second morning; the clouds and mist dissipate early, increasing your chances of seeing Namcha Barwa Peak.
⚠️ The sightseeing buses in the canyon stop operating at 4 PM, so don't miss the last one.
02 Yulin|Guangxi
Yulin isn't the kind of city that's stunning at first glance, but it's very comfortable to stay in. Darongshan National Forest Park is worth a whole day. Start by going to Lotus Peak in the morning; the chances of seeing a sea of clouds are high. Before 10 AM, the fog hasn't dissipated, so you won't need a filter for photos.
🍜 The pomelos and beef brisket noodles in Rongxian Town at the foot of the mountain are much more substantial than the fast food in the scenic area; you can eat your fill for around 20 RMB per person.
I advise you to only look at the outer part of Yuntian Cultural City. The entrance fee isn't cheap, and the interior is mostly modern imitations of ancient architecture, so the value for money is average. However, Wanhua Tower is worth spending half an hour on; the old arcade buildings and bluestone streets are still there. After 6 PM, when the tourists leave, the old ladies selling herbal tea on the street will chat with you in the local dialect.
⚠️ Yulin's summer afternoons are extremely sunny, so try to schedule your outdoor activities for the morning and evening. Find a teahouse to escape the sun at midday.
03 Sanming | Fujian
What surprised me most about Sanming was Taining. This small town was surprisingly quiet, unlike any tourist destination. For the boat tour on Dajin Lake, I recommend taking the earliest departure at 8:30 am. The lake is as smooth as a mirror, and the Danxia landforms on both banks are clearly reflected. The entire trip takes about three hours, stopping at Ganlu Temple and Yixiantian (a narrow gorge). Don't worry about getting tired; those two places are the highlights.
🚄 It only takes twenty minutes by high-speed train from Sanming North Station to Taining, perfect for a two-day, one-night weekend trip.
Taining Ancient Town has a more charming atmosphere at night than during the day. The lanterns of the Shangshu Mansion are lit, and the stone-paved streets glow warmly.
🍜 The warm mushroom buns and tofu soup at the entrance of the ancient town are a local breakfast staple, costing five yuan a serving, and are much better than those from chain stores.
⚠️ Boat tickets and entrance tickets for Dajin Lake are purchased separately. Booking online in advance can save you twenty yuan; don't wait until you arrive to pull out your phone.
04 Weifang | Shandong
Weifang's autumn is dry and crisp, perfect for exploring its ancient city. I spent a whole afternoon walking around the Qingzhou Ancient City Tourist Area. Entering from Fucai Gate, I walked north along Ouyuan Street, lined with Ming and Qing dynasty houses and sycamore trees.
⏰ After 4 PM, the crowds thinned out, and sunlight filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the blue brick walls—a scene more beautiful than any tourist map.
The most worthwhile place to pay for admission in the ancient city is Ouyuan Garden. The artificial hill and covered corridors retain their Qing dynasty appearance, and it's not crowded, allowing for a leisurely visit.
🍜 Longsheng Pastry Shop on the street is a long-established brand. Their honey-glazed pastries and peach crisps are made fresh. Buy a bag to eat on the go, paired perfectly with a bowl of hot soy milk.
⚠️ The electric carts in the ancient city will take you on a loop; it's only about two kilometers on foot, so don't waste your money. On weekends, you can take the high-speed train from Jinan, which takes just over an hour, making a day trip possible.
05 Anqing | Anhui
I didn't have high expectations for Anqing, but I was blown away by Tianzhu Mountain. August to October is the best season to climb Tianzhu Mountain; the weather is neither too hot nor too cold, and the pine trees and granite formations on the mountain are clearly defined under the autumn sun.
🚄 After arriving at Anqing Station by high-speed rail, it's about a 40-minute taxi ride to the visitor center. I recommend staying in Chazhuang Town at the foot of the mountain and heading up the mountain early the next morning.
There are two routes, Xiguan and Dongguan. I recommend Xiguan, as the main peak, Tianzhu Peak, and Mysterious Valley are located there. The entire hike takes about five hours.
⏰ Enter as soon as the mountain opens at 7:30 am. There are fewer people, and the clouds haven't cleared yet. Standing on the summit and watching the sea of clouds surge is well worth the ticket price.
⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring your own water and food. Buying them at the foot of the mountain is half the price. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, take the cable car up to the halfway point and then hike; it saves a lot of energy.
06 Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan
Jiuzhaigou's autumn scenery is unparalleled. In mid-to-late October, the leaves turn a deep yellow, reflecting in the Five-Flower Lake, creating an intensely vibrant color.
🚄 Now, the high-speed rail from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou is open, taking just over two hours to reach Huanglong Jiuzhaigou Station. From there, you can transfer to a bus to enter the park, saving you most of the day. Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area is vast, so it's recommended to enter early in the morning, first taking a sightseeing bus to the primeval forest, and then hiking downhill to avoid peak tourist season.
Siguniang Mountain is more suitable for hiking enthusiasts. Shuangqiao Valley is the best-maintained, with sightseeing buses throughout, making it suitable for first-time visitors. Huanglong's Five-Colored Pool still has plenty of water in October, but the altitude is high, so walk slowly and avoid running or jumping.
⚠️ Aba experiences significant temperature differences between day and night. Wear short sleeves during the day, but you'll need a down jacket in the evening. Don't just bring a light jacket up the mountain. These places are all suitable for autumn visits, but remember to book accommodation in advance, as prices often double during peak season. 07 Shanghai
Autumn in Shanghai is the most comfortable time of year—neither stuffy nor dry, perfect for strolling. The Expo Park has been transformed into a cultural park; it's less crowded and spacious, ideal for taking kids kite flying or picnics. For Yu Garden, arrive early—enter before it opens at 8:30 AM. Before 9:00 AM, before the crowds arrive, you can leisurely enjoy the Nine-Turn Bridge and the Jade Pavilion.
🍜 Near Yu Garden, try Nanxiang Steamed Buns. Their crab roe xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) come in baskets of six; eat them while they're hot, don't wait for them to cool down.
Guangfulin Cultural Relics Site is a personal recommendation. The underwater museum has a unique architecture, and in autumn, the ginkgo leaves turn yellow, creating stunning reflections on the water—perfect for photos. If you plan to visit Disney Resort, go on a weekday in October; the queues are less painful then. However, for popular rides, I still recommend getting a premium pass.
⚠️ Autumn mornings and evenings in Shanghai are cool; remember to bring a light jacket for the nighttime views.
🚄 Take the high-speed train to Hongqiao Station, then take Metro Line 10 directly to Yu Garden; no taxi needed.
08 Shaoguan|Guangdong
I would call Danxia Mountain in Shaoguan the most underrated autumn destination in Guangdong. From August to October, the temperature drops, making hiking less strenuous. There are two routes: Yangyuan Mountain and Elder Peak. I recommend starting with Elder Peak for the best sunset view.
⏰ Start hiking at 4:30 PM. Reaching the Sunrise Pavilion just in time for sunset; the Danxia landforms look like red-hot iron in the warm light.
Yinyuan Stone and Yangyuan Stone are Danxia Mountain's signature attractions, but don't just take photos and leave. A bamboo raft ride on the Jinjiang River is worthwhile; it takes about 40 minutes, with red cliffs and green trees on both banks, much easier than hiking.
🍜 At the foot of the mountain, in Renhua County, the sour bamboo shoot and snail stew is a local favorite for late-night snacks. Paired with a bowl of white porridge, it's refreshing and comforting.
⚠️ Danxia Mountain tickets are valid for two days. Staying in a guesthouse within the scenic area allows you to split your visit into two days, so there's no need to rush.
🚄 The high-speed train from Guangzhou South Station to Shaoguan Station takes about 50 minutes, and a taxi from the station to the scenic area takes about an hour, making it suitable for a short weekend trip.
01 Linzhi | Tibet
From August to October, the rainy season in Linzhi has just ended, and the air is still filled with the moist scent of vegetation. I recommend staying in Bomi; in the morning, you'll see snow-capped mountains and the misty Parlung Tsangpo River right outside your window—more worthwhile than any room with a view.
🚄 Now that the high-speed train from Lhasa to Linzhi is open, it only takes a little over three hours, saving you a whole day of mountain travel.
In autumn, the water of Basongcuo Lake turns a deep blue-green. After 3 pm, the sunlight shines obliquely, making the lake surface shimmer like shattered glass. Remember to walk along the lake for a while; don't just stop at the viewing platform. The further you go in, the fewer people there are, and the calmer the wind becomes. I've traveled this section of the Yunnan-Tibet Highway twice. The autumn foliage in October wasn't fully red yet, but the interplay of yellow and green was quite beautiful. The Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon is best visited on the second morning; the fog clears early, increasing the chances of seeing Namcha Barwa Peak.
⚠️ The sightseeing buses in the canyon stop running at 4 PM, so don't miss the last one.
02 Yulin | Guangxi
Yulin isn't the kind of city that immediately wows you, but it's very comfortable to stay in. Darong Mountain National Forest Park is worth a full day. Go up to Lotus Peak in the morning; the chances of seeing a sea of clouds are high, and the fog hasn't cleared before 10 AM, so you don't need filters for photos.
🍜 The pomelos and beef brisket noodles in Rongxian Town at the foot of the mountain are much more substantial than the fast food in the scenic area; you can eat your fill for around 20 RMB per person.
I advise you to only look at the outer perimeter of Yuntian Cultural City. The entrance fee isn't cheap, and the interior is mostly modern imitations of ancient architecture, so the value for money is average. Wanhua Tower is worth spending half an hour at; the old arcade buildings and bluestone streets are still there. After 6 PM, when the tourists have dispersed, the old ladies selling herbal tea on the street will chat with you in the local dialect.
⚠️ Yulin's summer afternoons are scorching hot, so try to schedule your outdoor activities for the morning and evening, and find a teahouse to escape the sun at midday.
03 Sanming|Fujian
What surprised me most about Sanming was Taining. This small town is surprisingly quiet, unlike any tourist destination. For the boat tour on Dajin Lake, I recommend taking the earliest departure at 8:30 AM. The lake is as smooth as a mirror, and the Danxia landforms on both banks are clearly reflected. The entire trip takes about three hours, stopping at Ganlu Temple and Yixiantian (a narrow gorge). Don't worry about getting tired; those two places are the highlights.
🚄 It only takes twenty minutes by high-speed train from Sanming North Station to Taining, perfect for a two-day, one-night weekend trip.
Taining Ancient Town has a more charming atmosphere at night than during the day. The lanterns of the Shangshu Mansion are lit, and the stone streets glow warmly.
🍜 Warm mushroom buns and fermented tofu at the entrance of the ancient city are a local breakfast staple, costing five yuan a serving, and taste better than chain stores.
⚠️ Boat tickets and entrance tickets for Dajin Lake are purchased separately. Booking online in advance can save you twenty yuan; don't wait until you arrive to pull out your phone.
04 Weifang|Shandong
Weifang's autumn is dry and crisp, perfect for exploring the ancient city. I spent a whole afternoon walking around the Qingzhou Ancient City Tourist Area, entering from Fucai Gate and heading north along Ouyuan Street, lined with Ming and Qing dynasty houses and the shadows of plane trees.
⏰ After 4 pm, the number of tourists decreases, and the sunlight filters through the trees, casting shadows on the blue brick walls—a scene more beautiful than any travel guide.
The most worthwhile place to pay for admission in the ancient city is Ouyuan Garden. The artificial hill and corridors retain their original Qing dynasty appearance, and it's not crowded, allowing you to take your time to explore.
🍜 Longsheng Pastry Shop on the street is a long-established brand. Their honey-glazed pastries and peach crisps are made fresh. Buy a bag and eat them on the go, perfect with a bowl of hot soy milk.
⚠️ The electric carts in the old town will take you on a loop, even though it's only about two kilometers on foot. Don't waste your money. Take the high-speed train from Jinan on the weekend; it takes just over an hour, and you can even make a day trip.
05 Anqing|Anhui
I didn't have high expectations for Anqing, but I was blown away by Tianzhu Mountain. August to October is the best season to climb Tianzhu Mountain—not too hot, not too cold. The pine trees and granite formations on the mountain are clearly defined under the autumn sun.
🚄 After arriving at Anqing Station by high-speed train, it's about a 40-minute taxi ride to the visitor center. I recommend staying in Chazhuang Town at the foot of the mountain and heading up the mountain early the next morning.
There are two routes: Xiguan and Dongguan. I recommend Xiguan, where the main peak, Tianzhu Peak, and the Mysterious Valley are located. The entire hike takes about five hours.
⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7:30 AM. Fewer people, and the mist hasn't cleared yet. Standing on the summit watching the sea of clouds surge is well worth the ticket price.
⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring your own water and food. Buying them at the foot of the mountain is half the price. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, take the cable car halfway up the mountain before hiking; it saves a lot of energy.
06 Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan
Jiuzhaigou's autumn scenery is unparalleled. In mid-to-late October, the leaves turn a deep yellow, reflected in the Five-Flower Lake, creating an intensely rich color.
🚄 Now, the high-speed rail from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou is open. It takes just over two hours to reach Huanglong Jiuzhaigou Station, then you can transfer to a bus to enter the park, saving you most of the day. The Jiuzhaigou scenic area is vast, so it's recommended to enter early in the morning, take the sightseeing bus to the primeval forest first, and then hike downhill to avoid peak tourist season.
Mount Siguniang is more suitable for hiking enthusiasts. Shuangqiao Valley is the best-maintained, with sightseeing buses available throughout, making it ideal for first-time visitors. The Five-Colored Pools in Huanglong still have plenty of water in October, but the altitude is high, so walk slowly and avoid running or jumping.
⚠️ Aba experiences significant temperature differences between day and night. Wear short sleeves during the day, but you'll need a down jacket in the evening. Don't just bring a light jacket up the mountain. These places are all suitable for autumn visits, but remember to book accommodation in advance, as prices often double during peak season.
07 Shanghai
Autumn in Shanghai is the most comfortable, neither stuffy nor dry, perfect for strolling. The World Expo Park has now been transformed into a cultural park, with fewer crowds and more space, ideal for taking children to fly kites or have picnics. For Yu Garden, arrive early; enter before 8:30 am when it opens. Before 9:00 am, before the crowds arrive, you can leisurely enjoy the Nine-Turn Bridge and the Jade Linglong Pavilion.
🍜 Near Yu Garden, try Nanxiang Steamed Buns. Their crab roe xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) come in baskets of six; eat them while they're hot, don't wait for them to cool down.
Guangfulin Cultural Site is a personal recommendation. The underwater museum has a unique architecture, and in autumn, the ginkgo leaves turn yellow, creating stunning reflections on the water – perfect for photos. If you're going to the Disney Resort, choose a weekday; the October weather makes the queues less painful, but for popular rides, I still recommend getting a premium pass.
⚠️ Shanghai's autumn mornings and evenings are cool, so remember to bring a light jacket for the night view.
🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Hongqiao Station, then take Metro Line 10 directly to Yu Garden – no need for taxis.
08 Shaoguan|Guangdong
Danxia Mountain in Shaoguan is, in my opinion, the most underrated autumn destination in Guangdong. From August to October, the temperature drops, making hiking less strenuous. There are two routes: Yangyuan Mountain and Elder Peak. I suggest starting with Elder Peak for the best sunset view.
⏰ Start hiking at 4:30 PM, and you'll arrive at the Sunrise Pavilion just in time for sunset. The Danxia landforms look like red-hot iron in the warm light.
The Yin Yuan Stone and Yang Yuan Stone are the signature attractions of Danxia Mountain, but don't just take photos and leave. A bamboo raft ride on the Jinjiang River is worthwhile; it takes about 40 minutes, offering views of red cliffs and green trees on both sides, and is much easier than hiking.
🍜 The pickled bamboo shoot and snail stew in Renhua County at the foot of the mountain is a local favorite for a late-night snack. Paired with a bowl of white congee, it's refreshing and comforting.
⚠️ Danxia Mountain tickets are valid for two days. Staying at a guesthouse within the scenic area allows you to split your visit into two days, without rushing.
🚄 The high-speed train from Guangzhou South Station to Shaoguan Station takes about 50 minutes. A taxi ride from the station to the scenic area takes about an hour, making it suitable for a short weekend trip.