Xilingol League travel guide and discussion

Ulanqab-Xilingol League short holiday treasure route, if you want to avoid crowds and have a sufficient budget! Choose a business car to set off—quiet, comfortable, truly authentic! If you prefer cost-effectiveness, please scroll down~ Capture the volcanic geological wonders with black volcanic rock landscapes, plus a spacesuit experience, and freely explore the Gobi secret spots! Worry-free pick-up and drop-off service, enjoy Zhuozishan smoked chicken, hand-held mutton, red-braised lamb... feast all the way! · - Friends lucky enough to find this don’t miss out, here comes the exciting guide ↓ · - 🚗 Itinerary: Day 1: Ulanhada Volcanic Geological Park 🌋 Volcanic geological wonders, black volcanic rock formations perfect for photography 📸, plus a spacesuit experience that makes you feel like you’re on Mars! Day 2: Dahongshan - Erenhot National Gate Scenic Area - Erenhot Rulai Palm - Erenhot Salt Lake 🌄 From the grandeur of Dahongshan to the solemnity of Erenhot’s national gate, then the mystery of Rulai Palm and the tranquility of the salt lake, experience multiple landscapes in one day and marvel at nature’s craftsmanship! Day 3: Huitengxile Grassland - Laolihai 🌿🌊 Gallop across Huitengxile Grassland, feel the vastness and freedom of the prairie; then relax by Laolihai, and be sure to try Zhuozishan smoked chicken, hand-held mutton, and other local delicacies 🍖—let your taste buds travel too! Return day: With full memories and photos, head home 🛫, ending this dream trip to Ulanqab-Xilingol League! Don’t forget to try red-braised lamb, glass dumplings, and lamb offal to make the culinary journey complete 🍲! · - Must-visit attractions: 🌋 Ulanhada Volcanic Geological Park 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Address: Ulanhada Volcano, west side of Erguang Expressway, Chahar Left Rear Banner, Ulanqab City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region ⏰ Opening hours: April 1 - October 31, 08:00-18:30 ⏳ Duration: 1 day 📝 Natural volcanic museum, unique lava landforms, feels like being on an alien planet 🌍! 🛂 Erenhot National Gate Scenic Area 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Address: Youyi Road, Erenhot City, Xilingol League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region ⏰ Opening hours: May 1 - October 7, 08:30-17:30 ⏳ Duration: 1-2 hours 📝 A unique witness to the China-Mongolia border, the majestic national gate stands tall, feel the solemnity of the border line 💪! 🌿 Huitengxile Grassland 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Address: Central-southern part of Chahar Right Middle Banner, Ulanqab City ⏰ Open all day ⏳ Duration: 1 day 📝 Vast and magnificent, lakes like mirrors, a unique prehistoric volcanic site, the grassland scenery is breathtaking 🌄! · - 🌤️ Travel checklist: 👗 Clothing: Big temperature difference day and night in May, bring a light down jacket + windbreaker, quick-dry innerwear, wear durable long pants for horseback riding on the grassland. 👒 Accessories: Wide-brim sun hat + windproof face mask, UV protection sunglasses, high-top sand-proof hiking shoes, bring two pairs of wool socks. 📄 Documents: ID card is a must! Student/senior cards enjoy discounts, self-driving requires driver’s license + vehicle registration, keep electronic copies on your phone to avoid loss. 📷 Electronics: Camera + telephoto lens for grassland animals, power bank with 20,000mAh capacity, mobile Wi-Fi or local SIM card to stay connected. 💊 Medicine: Stomach medicine for beef and mutton diet, motion sickness patches for bumpy grassland rides, moisturizer + lip balm to combat dry and windy weather. · - Don’t hesitate👇! Click the card below now and rush to the mountains and fields, rush to freedom

🌧️ "Grain Rain" is approaching, marking the end of spring and the arrival of summer. The grass on the Xilingol Grassland is gradually sprouting, 🌱 showing fresh green shoots. Major scenic spots in Xilingol League will open one after another to welcome visitors. 👏 Below is the opening schedule from April to July for 2A, 3A, and 4A scenic spots in various banners, counties, and districts of Xilingol League, along with highlights for each spot! Please save it! · 📆 Opened in April ✅ Beizi Temple Scenic Area 4A Address: Baoligen Street, Xilinhot City Highlights: Century-old ancient temple, the largest temple in Xilingol League, Qing Dynasty architecture. ✅ Shoufang·Xilingol Cheese Cultural Industry Park 3A Address: Eastern Xilinhot City Highlights: Tasting and purchasing authentic Xilingol dairy products. ✅ Yuan Shangdu Ruins 4A Address: Wuyi Pasture, Shangdu Town, Zhenglan Banner Highlights: World Cultural Heritage, capital ruins of the Yuan Dynasty, Jinlianchuan grassland scenery. ✅ Taipusi Imperial Horse Garden Tourist Area 4A Address: Gongbolage Sum, Taipusi Banner Highlights: Imperial horse culture, grassland scenery, world-famous horses, leisure riding, photography. ✅ Erlianhaote National Gate Scenic Area 4A Address: Beside National Highway 208, Erlianhaote City Highlights: Northern gate of the motherland, twin boundary monuments, distant view of neighboring city Zamiin-Uud. ✅ Erlianhaote National Geopark 3A Address: 9 km northeast of Erlianhaote City center Highlights: National Geopark, various dinosaur fossil geological relics. ✅ Xianghuang Banner Mongolian Horse Culture Museum 2A Address: Baogedu Road, Xinbaolage Town, Xianghuang Banner Highlights: Horse culture relics, Mongolian horse culture of Xianghuang Banner. ✅ Sunite Museum 2A Address: Mandula Street, Mandula Town, Sunite Left Banner Highlights: Learn about Sunite history, culture, customs, and arts. · 📆 Planned to open in May ✅ Duolun Lake Scenic Area 4A Address: Dagushan Village, Luanyuan Town, Duolun County Highlights: Lake, grassland, sandy land, hills; enjoy full fish feast, fishing, cycling around the lake, self-driving. ✅ Duolun County Baiyin Tribe Scenic Area 3A Address: South of Group 7, Dagushan Village, Luanyuan Town, Duolun County Highlights: Grassland, river, forest, sandy land landscapes; stay in Mongolian yurts, enjoy Mongolian cuisine. ✅ Shangdu Lake Ecotourism Scenic Area, Zhenglan Banner 3A Address: Lakeside of Shangdu Lake, Sanggendalai Town, Zhenglan Banner Highlights: Driving and horseback riding around the lake, camel riding, stargazing, bird watching, bonfire parties. ✅ Xingkong Cultural Tourism Camp, Zhengxiangbai Banner 3A Address: Taolin Baolage Gacha, Baoligen Taohai Sum, Zhengxiangbai Banner Highlights: Astronomy study activities, starry sky tents, camping and stargazing. ✅ Wuliyasitai Tourism Resort 3A Address: 27 km north of Wuliyasitai Town, East Ujimqin Banner Highlights: Grassland, mountain views, strange rock formations, experience herders' life, enjoy folk activities. ✅ Shanxi Guild Hall Scenic Area, Duolun County 2A Address: No.1 Huiguan Road, Duolun County Highlights: Qing Dynasty ancient architecture, over 270 years old. ✅ Uragai Qiyan Tribe Resort 2A Address: 17 km on the Uragai Ring Road Highlights: Stay in Mongolian yurts, eat authentic Mongolian food, watch Mongolian song and dance performances. ✅ Uragai Jiuchuwan Scenic Area 4A Address: Within Haragaitu Farm, Uragai Management Area Highlights: Grassland river sightseeing, experience folk customs. ✅ Uragai Wild Wolf Valley Scenic Area 4A Address: Hesige Wula Pasture, Uragai Management Area Highlights: Filming location of "Wolf Totem," feed wild wolves, eat authentic Mongolian food, stay in Rainbow Homestay. ✅ Uragai Bulin Spring Scenic Area 4A Address: 11 km north of Bayin Husuo Town, Uragai Management Area Highlights: Wolf Totem film shooting base, Bulin Spring, nomadic culture. · 📆 Planned to open in June ✅ Ulan Wutai Tourism Scenic Area 4A Address: Jirengole Town, West Ujimqin Banner Highlights: Great Obo, blessing tower, hundred-tree garden, experience folk customs, participate in study activities. ✅ Mongol Khan City Scenic Area Address: Bayanerihotu Gacha, West Ujimqin Banner Highlights: Over 200 Mongolian yurts, taste Mongolian food, stay in yurts, horseback riding, camel riding, archery, off-road driving. ✅ China Horse Capital Core Cultural Ecotourism Area Address: South of Xilinhot City Highlights: Large indoor panoramic show "Mongolian Horse," horseback riding, horse racing, equestrian performances. ✅ Xilingol Vocational College Study Base Tourism Area 3A Address: No.11 Mingantu Street, Xilinhot City Highlights: Check in at Genghis Khan Literature Museum, Northern Grassland Music and Art Museum, Morin Khuur Music Hall, Xilingol Grassland Resource Specimen Museum, Ethnic Handicraft Culture Exhibition Hall, Equestrian College, Xilingol Mongolian Restaurant Demonstration Store, General Aviation College Flight Training Base, etc. ✅ Habuqigai Scenic Area 3A Address: 8 km east of West Ujimqin Banner seat Highlights: Sandy sparse forest landscape, horseback riding, archery, rafting. ✅ Peony Valley Scenic Area 3A Address: 26 km northeast of Hesige Wula Pasture, Uragai Management Area Highlights: Peonies bloom in May and June, grassland, sea of flowers. ✅ Taipusi Banner Folk Horse Town Resort Tourism Area 3A Address: Within Wuqiao Obo Gacha, Taipusi Banner Highlights: Horse riding, grassland scenery, folk customs, Mongolian food, stay in Mongolian yurts. ✅ Sanheyuan Scenic Area, Duolun County 2A Address: Baichengzi Village, Caimushan Township, Duolun County Highlights: Mountains, rivers, hot springs, orchards, flowers; sightseeing, fishing, hot spring bathing, tasting grassland delicacies. ✅ Xilingol League Xiling River Grassland Tourism Resort Address: 15 km south of Xilinhot City on National Highway G207 Highlights: Xiling River Jiuchuwan, stay in Mongolian yurts, taste Mongolian food, grassland riding. · 📆 Planned to open in July ✅ Xilingol Tourism Nadam Folk Custom Park 3A Address: 15 km south of Xilinhot City on National Highway G207 Highlights: Summer tourism Nadam festival venue, traditional grassland sports events, grassland camping, tasting grassland food, enjoying song and dance performances. · 🌿 After Grain Rain, the weather warms up. When the Xilingol Grassland turns green again, come here for a self-driving tour! Enjoy the vast grassland scenery, experience nomadic culture, and taste authentic Mongolian cuisine! · pic fr Vast Grassland Xilingol Cultural Tourism

Hey friends! This 3-day Xilingol League–Tongliao itinerary lets you explore natural grasslands, savor Inner Mongolian cuisine, and enjoy quality time together~ · ------------------- 🎉Itinerary: Exploring Xilingol League–Tongliao🌾 D1: Khan Mountain – Ulagai Wild Wolf Valley Our journey begins with a visit to the mystical Khan Mountain, where we'll delve into history. Afterward, we'll head to the Ulagai Wild Wolf Valley for a close encounter with wolves and experience the wild beauty of the grasslands. D2: Former Site of the 51st Regiment, 6th Division of the Inner Mongolia Production and Construction Corps – Ulagai Lake – Beside the Water – Ulagai Grassland Nine-Bend River On the second day, we'll first visit the Former Site of the 51st Regiment, 6th Division of the Inner Mongolia Production and Construction Corps to trace its history. Next, we'll arrive at the picturesque Ulagai Lake to enjoy the stunning scenery. In the afternoon, we'll visit Beside the Water to experience the beauty of the water and sky merging seamlessly. Finally, we'll reach the Ulagai Grassland Nine-Bend River to admire the meandering waterways. D3: Bulin Spring On the last day, we'll visit Bulin Spring, where crystal-clear spring water blends harmoniously with the surrounding natural scenery, bringing our journey to a perfect end.🌱 Return: After a delightful Xilingol League–Tongliao trip, we'll begin our journey home, looking forward to our next adventure!🛫 · ------------------- Must-Visit Attractions: 🌟 Ulagai Grassland Nine-Bend River 🌟🌟 · Recommended Index: ⭐⭐⭐ · Address: East Ujimqin Banner, Xilingol League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region · Opening Hours: All day · Visit Duration: 1–3 hrs · The wetlands and rivers of Nine-Bend River complement each other beautifully, with breathtaking fields of tamarisk flowers. You can also enjoy Mongolian songs, dances, and cuisine. 🌟 Ulagai Wild Wolf Valley 🌟🌟 · Recommended Index: ⭐⭐⭐ · Address: Hesigewula Ranch, Ulagai Management Area, East Ujimqin Banner, Xilingol League · Opening Hours: 07:30–18:00 · Visit Duration: 2–3 hrs · Explore Wild Wolf Valley, observe grassland wolves, and delve into the fusion of wolf culture and Mongolian Yuan culture. 🌟 Bulin Spring 🌟🌟 · Recommended Index: ⭐⭐⭐ · Address: North of Bayanhushuo Town, East Ujimqin Banner, Xilingol League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region · Opening Hours: 08:00–18:00 · Visit Duration: 1–3 hrs · Experience the grassland charm of this 4A-level scenic spot, feel the allure of wolf totem culture, and appreciate the essence of nomadic culture. 🌟 Khan Mountain 🌟🌟 · Recommended Index: ⭐⭐⭐ · Address: Canglang Road, Holingol City, Tongliao City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region · Opening Hours: All day · Visit Duration: 4 hrs · Admire giant statues and warrior sculptures, and experience the magnificent blend of nature and history. 🌟 Ulagai Lake 🌟🌟 · Recommended Index: ⭐⭐ · Address: East of Bayintaohai, Halagetu Farm, Xilingol League · Opening Hours: All day · Visit Duration: 3–4 hrs · Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of Ulagai Lake and witness the harmonious coexistence of geese, swans, and the lake. · ------------------- Tips: · Souvenir Prices🏷: Xilingol's mutton specialties are fantastic, but remember to compare prices before buying to avoid overpaying. · Photo Spots📸: Daqinggou and Xiaozhuang Garden in Tongliao are beautiful photo spots; don't miss them! Impress your friends with stunning pictures. · Local Customs🎉: Experience the Mongolian Nadaam Fair and feel the passion and vitality of the grassland people. It's definitely worth a try! · Clothing Suggestions👗: The grassland climate is unpredictable, so bring warm clothes and sunscreen to stay comfortable and stylish. · Transportation🚗: Self-driving is a good option, but pay attention to road conditions and traffic rules. Safety always comes first! · ------------------- Leave your footprints and unforgettable memories on your Xilingol League–Tongliao trip!👣✨

The geology and landforms of the Inner Mongolian grasslands are complex and mysterious; millions of years ago, this area was a vast volcanic field. To this day, the Xilingol region still retains many volcanic remains. [Cute] The Inner Mongolia Xilinhot Grassland Volcano Geopark is located within Xilinhot City. In 2018, it was approved by the Ministry of Land and Resources as part of the 8th batch of National Geoparks. The park is divided into two core scenic areas: the Pingdingshan Multi-tiered Lava Plateau and the Gezishan Composite Volcanic Cone and Spatter Cone area. It preserves geological remains such as volcanic cones, lava plateaus, and pyroclastic sheets in their entirety. The rarity and integrity of its volcanic landforms have significant scientific research value worldwide. This area integrates grassland ecological landscapes with Mongolian folk culture, forming a unique landscape where nature and humanity coexist. The park contains large-scale Cenozoic volcanic geological remains. The multi-tiered lava plateau in the Pingdingshan area is composed of dozens of stepped volcanic cones, showcasing the multi-stage characteristics of volcanic eruptions. The Gezishan area is characterized by composite volcanic landforms, including cinder cones and spatter cones. It features extensive pyroclastic sheets and well-preserved spatter cone groups. [TeaDrinker] The Pingdingshan area centers around the Beilike Pasture and preserves multi-tiered lava plateaus and volcanic cone groups. Clear columnar jointing can be seen at the edges of the plateau, and the surface is covered with grassland vegetation, creating a landscape where stepped landforms and green meadows interweave. The Gezishan area concentrates on the spatter cone and cinder cone complexes formed during the late stages of volcanic eruptions. The Beilike Pasture multi-tiered lava plateau is composed of dozens of volcanic cones, a uniqueness that is rare in the north and even worldwide. The Gezishan area is characterized by primitive volcanic landscapes such as pyroclastic sheets and composite volcanic landforms (e.g., volcanic spatter cones, volcanic cinder cones). 🚗 Admission ticket prices: 1. Admission ticket + scenic shuttle bus: CNY 120. Ascend to the main viewing platform for sightseeing. 2. Admission ticket + scenic shuttle bus + off-road vehicle: CNY 170. Includes the main viewing platform, plus an off-road vehicle ride to enjoy two additional volcanic viewing platforms.

When taking parents out for the National Day holiday, the biggest fear is an itinerary that's too full, too much walking, and long wait times. These 8 cities have a slow pace, concentrated attractions, and plenty of rest spots, making them perfect for strolling with seniors. Remember one rule: visit main attractions in the morning, and find a place to drink tea and rest in the afternoon. 1️⃣ Luoyang | Henan Don't try to do too much when visiting Luoyang with your parents. ⏰ Arrive at the Longmen Grottoes before 8:00 AM. It's less crowded, the light is soft, and the Vairocana Buddha in the West Hill Grottoes is clearest. Take the electric shuttle in and out to save at least 40 minutes of walking. 📍 Guanlin Temple is great for the afternoon; the courtyards are flat with few steps, and you can finish walking through in 20 minutes. If your parents are still mobile, you can visit Laojun Mountain and Jiguan Cave on the same day, but use the cable car to go up and down—don't force them to hike. Wangcheng Park has a chrysanthemum exhibition in the autumn with plenty of benches, so you can sit down anytime. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of bufan soup with shredded pancakes. The soup is soft and easy for seniors to chew. ⚠️ The Longmen Grottoes stop admitting visitors after 4:00 PM, so don't cut it close. Luoyang is cool in the mornings and evenings in mid-to-late October, so pack a light jacket for your parents. 2️⃣ Songyuan | Jilin Songyuan is an underrated slow-paced city. ⏰ The best season for Chagan Lake is from late September to early October, when the reeds are golden and the wind isn't biting. Take your parents on a boat tour to see the lake without having to walk too much. 📍 Jinchan Island is best in the morning. The island is flat, and the island loop trail is even wheelchair-accessible. Lake fish is a must-try; find a farmhouse restaurant by the lake for stewed bighead carp with corn cakes. Three people can eat their fill for just over CNY 100+. ⚠️ It's windy at Chagan Lake, so bring hats and scarves. 🚄 It's about a 1-hour drive from Songyuan Station to Chagan Lake. It's recommended to charter a car for the round trip, as bus schedules are infrequent and waiting in the cold is unpleasant. In the afternoon, head back to the city to stroll through the riverside park and watch the sunset over the Songhua River—it's relaxing and great for photos. 3️⃣ Hefei | Anhui Hefei is a great place to use as a stopover for a leisurely trip. ⏰ Arrive at Sanhe Ancient Town before 8:30 AM, before the tour groups flood in. The bluestone paths are still damp, and you won't have to fight for photo spots. The ancient town isn't large and can be explored in 2 hours. Rice dumplings and crispy duck are local specialties. 🍜 Find a small restaurant by the river, sit down, and order a Sanhe stir-fry—it's flavorful and goes well with rice. If your parents like antiques, check out the old post office and the former pawnshop site in the alleys. ⚠️ Some alleys in the ancient town are narrow and slippery, so help the seniors if it rains. Head back to the city in the afternoon for a walk by Swan Lake; there are plenty of benches to rest whenever you get tired. It's still hot in Hefei in early October, so ⏰ avoid going out at noon for the most comfort. 4️⃣ Xilin Gol | Inner Mongolia Xilin Gol is closer and less crowded than Hulunbuir for taking parents to see the grasslands. ⏰ The grass in the Ulagai Grassland turns yellow in late September, giving it a vast, desolate beauty that's just as photogenic as in summer. 📍 Drive or charter a car along the grassland highway and stop whenever you like. Find a herdsman's home to drink pot tea, paired with milk tofu and hand-grabbed mutton—your parents will likely enjoy it. The wind on the grassland is strong, so ⚠️ pack windproof jackets and sunglasses for the seniors, as the UV rays are stronger than you'd think. The light is best after 3:00 PM when it hits at an angle, showing the layers of the grassland. Don't schedule horseback riding; the bumping is bad for seniors' backs. Staying one night in a yurt is a fun experience, but ⚠️ temperatures are near freezing at night during the National Day holiday, so choosing a brick house with heating is a safer bet. 5️⃣ Anshun | Guizhou Anshun is the most effortless way to experience Guizhou. ⏰ Enter the Huangguoshu Waterfall scenic area at 7:30 AM and take the escalator down to the viewing platform, saving yourself a 30-minute walk on stairs. The ground in the Water Curtain Cave is slippery, so ⚠️ if your parents have mobility issues, just view it from a distance and don't go into the cave. Longgong Cave is a 40-minute drive from Huangguoshu. You can take a boat into the karst cave, which requires no walking at all—perfect for seniors. 🍜 For lunch, have some duoduo noodles outside the scenic area; the sour soup is appetizing, and the noodles are soft and easy to chew. Two attractions are just right for one day; don't add Tianxingqiao, as the route is too long. 🚄 There are direct shuttle buses from Anshun West Station to the scenic area, but lines are long during the National Day holiday, so it's recommended to charter a car in advance. It's rainy in Anshun in early October, so ⏰ if you happen to catch a clear day after the rain, the waterfall will have the most water—that's just luck. 6️⃣ Linxia | Gansu Linxia is an overlooked treasure around Lanzhou. ⏰ Go to the Liujiaxia Tourist Resort in the morning and take a boat to tour the Yellow River reservoir area. The water is clear, and the Danxia landforms on both banks are crimson—your parents will love it. You need to take a speedboat to get to the Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area, which takes an hour one way. The grotto plank roads are narrow, so ⚠️ seniors with a fear of heights should assess their comfort level. However, the breeze and the scenery from the boat are worth the ticket price alone. 🍜 Head back to Linxia city for hand-grabbed mutton paired with covered-bowl tea; the meat is tender, and the tea cuts through the greasiness. Stroll through the Bafang Thirteen Alleys in the evening; the alleys are flat with exquisite brick carvings, perfect for a slow walk. 🚄 It's about a 2-hour drive from Lanzhou to Linxia. A day trip is feasible, but staying one night is more relaxed. 7️⃣ Changsha | Hunan When taking parents to Changsha, avoid the trendy restaurants with long lines. ⏰ Tianxin Pavilion opens at 8:00 AM; half an hour is enough to climb the pavilion and see the old city walls. Take the cable car up and the slide down at Yuelu Mountain, so your parents don't have to climb a single step. You must book the Provincial Museum in advance, and ⚠️ it's closed on Mondays. The Mawangdui exhibition hall is crowded, so ⏰ catch the first entry at 9:00 AM for the quietest experience. Huaminglou is in Ningxiang, a 1-hour drive away, and is suitable for parents interested in history. 🍜 Don't squeeze into the crowds at Wuyi Square for meals. Find a noodle shop in a residential area and get shredded pork noodles with a fried egg—it's a comfortable meal for just over 10 yuan. In the afternoon, take a walk along the Xiangjiang River scenic belt; there are plenty of benches and dense shade, so you can just sit and watch the river view when you get tired. 8️⃣ Ya'an | Sichuan Ya'an is the coolest option around Chengdu. ⏰ Enter Bifeng Gorge at 8:00 AM and take the sightseeing bus to the Panda Base first to see the pandas eating breakfast when they're most active. The canyon boardwalks are flat with high negative oxygen ion levels, so your parents won't get winded walking. There's an elevator from the Panda Base to the bottom of the canyon, which saves effort. ⚠️ The Panda Pavilion has long lines during the National Day holiday, so it's recommended to see the canyon first and then return to see the pandas to avoid the peak. 🍜 Eat Ya fish outside the scenic area; it's stewed in a clay pot, and the soup is fresh and the meat tender, but it's not cheap, so ask about the price before ordering. In the afternoon, head back to the city to stroll along the Covered Bridge; the river breeze is cool, and you can sit there all afternoon. It rains a lot at night in Ya'an in early October, so ⏰ the days are actually quite refreshing. 🚄 The high-speed train from Chengdu West Station to Ya'an takes about an hour, making it a great short-trip stopover. When taking parents out, do less sightseeing and sit down more. Among these 8 cities, Anshun and Luoyang are best for a first-time long-distance trip with seniors, while Songyuan and Linxia are suitable for those who like peace and quiet. Which one do you plan to visit first?

Take her to these 8 hidden gems for a fresh spark in your relationship 1️⃣ Linxia | Gansu The Yellow River takes a turn here, leaving its blue waters to Liujiaxia. We stood by the reservoir, and she suddenly stopped taking photos, just staring blankly at the water. I asked why the water looked like the sea, and she said, "The sea isn't this quiet." 📍The boardwalk at Bingling Temple hugs the cliffside. Her palms were sweating as she gripped my hand—that stretch of the path was more effective than any confession of love. In the afternoon, we went to the grottoes to see the statues. Light slanted in from the top of the cave, leaving half of the Buddha's face in light and half in shadow. Don't rush off when you leave; grab a bowl of niangpi (cold skin noodles) by the pier. It's tangy and spicy, and she slurped it right up. ⚠️ The last boat departs at 4:30 PM, so don't get too caught up in the scenery and miss it. This place is best for a slow stroll; impatient travelers might find it frustrating. 2️⃣ Bortala | Xinjiang The blue of Sayram Lake is an unreasonable kind of blue. As soon as the car crested the hill, she let out a "wow" and didn't close her mouth for the rest of the drive. We drove halfway around the lake. The wind was so strong it whipped our hair across our faces. She laughed and teased me for picking a bad spot, but every photo turned out better than the last. 📍Anjihai Grand Canyon is on the other side. Looking down from the cliff edge, the reddish-brown folds look like a wound torn into the earth. She didn't dare get too close, so I held her sleeve and told her not to be afraid. In the evening, we went to Wenquan County for a soak. As the steam rose, she leaned on my shoulder and said it was all worth it. ⏰ The wildflowers by the lake are in full bloom in late June; if you miss it, you'll have to wait another year. ⚠️ There are no railings at the canyon, so make sure to step back 3 paces when taking photos of her. 3️⃣ Xuancheng | Anhui Chaji Ancient Village is much quieter than Hongcun. The stone paths were slick from the rain, and she walked carefully in her cloth shoes. I laughed, telling her she looked like a cat stepping through water. The soy milk shop at the village entrance only stays open until 9:30 AM. We got up early, sat on the bridge, drank piping hot soy milk, and watched art students set up their easels. 📍The ancestral hall in Jixi Longchuan is worth a slow visit. She guessed wrong on several of the stories depicted in the wood carvings, so I proudly played the role of guide. She rolled her eyes, but she listened intently. There's a shop in the village selling mao tofu (hairy tofu) that sizzles on the iron griddle. At first, she complained about the smell, but after one bite, she bought a second serving. This place is perfect for someone who loves old houses, but don't bring anyone who needs to rest every 2 steps. 4️⃣ Wuxi | Jiangsu Nianhua Bay is more beautiful at night than during the day. When the lights came on, she stood under the tower, looked up, and said, "I finally understand why you insisted on bringing me here." But the real highlight is the 📍Lingshan Giant Buddha. We arrived right when it opened to avoid the crowds. She stood at the feet of the Buddha in silence for a long time, and when we came out, she told me she felt incredibly peaceful. In the afternoon, we headed to Huishan Ancient Town, bought 2 crispy cakes, and snacked on them while walking around. She complained they were too sweet, but she didn't stop eating. ⚠️ If you aren't into film and television, don't bother with the Three Kingdoms and Water Margin City; the tickets aren't cheap, and it's just empty sets inside. Staying inside Nianhua Bay is the most convenient option—you won't have to squeeze onto a bus after the light show—though the room rates are a bit high. Booking in advance can save you over 100. 5️⃣ Xilingol | Inner Mongolia The Wulagai Grassland cured her phone addiction. With spotty reception, she just tossed her phone in her bag and leaned against the car window to watch the clouds. Waves of grass rolled on and on. She suddenly said, "This place is perfect for an argument—nowhere to run after, so you have to make up." The evening sunset dyed the entire grassland a honey color. She sat on the grass in silence, and when the wind blew, I felt this trip was worth it. ⏰ The grass is greenest in July and August; it starts turning yellow by mid-September. 🍜 There's a Mongolian restaurant in town that serves hand-grabbed mutton with milk tea. She initially refused because of the gamey smell, but later she dipped it in chive flower sauce and ate 3 pieces. ⚠️ Don't drive at night; there are no streetlights on the grassland, and the GPS will trick you into taking dirt roads. 6️⃣ Yangjiang | Guangdong The sand at Dajiao Bay on Hailing Island is as fine as flour. She stepped on it barefoot and said it was much more comfortable than the last beach we visited. We stood in the waves for half an hour. Every time she was chased by a wave, she screamed and laughed like a child. 📍The Maritime Silk Road Museum is right next door. After seeing the Nanhai No. 1 shipwreck, she stood in front of the glass display case and said, "These people didn't even know if they'd make it back before they set sail." After the tide went out in the afternoon, we could flip over rocks to find little crabs. She didn't dare catch them, so she just directed me. ⚠️ Apply plenty of sunscreen; the sun at the beach looks gentle, but it will peel a layer of skin off you. For seafood, go to the food stalls in Zhapo Town; don't eat at the ones near the scenic area entrance—they're expensive and mediocre. 7️⃣ Enshi | Hubei Trackers are rarely seen on the Shennong Stream anymore, but while we were boating through the gorge, she kept asking how people in the past managed to pull the boats. The cliffs on both sides loomed over us as the boat traveled through the green water. She was unusually quiet, and later told me she was a bit afraid of the water. In the afternoon, we went to the Enshi Grand Canyon. She gripped my hand the entire time we walked the cliffside boardwalk, her nails digging into my skin. I told her to loosen her grip, but she said she couldn't, or her legs would go weak. 📍The Jiujin Hall in Tusi City was much more relaxing. She was fascinated by the guide's explanation and even retold me the story of the Tusi marrying off his daughter afterward. The Qingjiang River cruise is best saved for the last day—it's a great way to rest your feet while watching the green mountains drift by. She finally let go of my hand. ⚠️ It takes 4 hours to walk the entire Grand Canyon; wear sneakers, not sandals. 8️⃣ Qinhuangdao | Hebei The beach at Beidaihe is most beautiful at 5:30 AM. She wrapped herself in a jacket and squatted on the sand waiting for the sunrise. I asked if it was really worth it, and she said yes. The moment the sun jumped out of the sea, she didn't say a word, but I knew she saw it. The wetlands at Pigeon Nest Park are best visited in the morning. She stared blankly at the birds in the distance and said she wanted to move here when she retires. In the afternoon, we headed to Shanhaiguan. Standing under the "First Pass Under Heaven" gate tower, the wind was strong enough to blow our hats off, but she held onto hers and climbed up. From the city wall, you can see the sea in the distance. She suddenly asked, "When the guards here missed home, did they look in this direction?" 📍Old Dragon Head extends into the sea; she stood at the very end and said it felt like standing on the bow of a ship. ⚠️ Beidaihe is packed on summer weekends; if you want some peace and quiet, book your room for Monday through Thursday.

Head to the small prairie town of Duolun, located right next to Duolun Lake, with views of the vast wilderness. Open your window to sweeping scenery, and gaze up at the starry sky at night. Drive around the lake to enjoy the views, visit ancient temples to experience the history, and savor delicious Mongolian cuisine. The accommodation is quiet and cozy, perfect for resting after a long day. Experience the freedom where the prairie meets the sandy land, and cherish the vast romance of the northern frontier. Xilin Gol! Duolun! Stay at a horse-culture farm on the prairie. Xilin Gol! Duolun! Stay in a prairie secret spot for your holiday. ✔️ Horse-culture theme ✔️ Natural elm forest ✔️ Scenic view rooms A secluded farm right next to vast grasslands✨ You'll want to ride horses and have fun as soon as you arrive! · 🌿 Prairie ranch scenery The farm is located in Yijiahe Village, Caimushan Township, Duolun, surrounded by natural elm forests and endless grasslands🌳 Open your window in the morning to prairie views, and watch the sunset paint the entire ranch in warm gold in the evening. Every photo you take will be a stunning, healing shot📸 · 🐎 Featured experiences This place is themed around horse culture. You can ride horses under professional guidance and feel the passion of the prairie. The rooms are cozy with comfortable bedding and feature scenic windows, so you can see the prairie the moment you wake up. The game room adds extra fun to your holiday, and it's pet-friendly, which is great for families traveling with furry friends✅ · 📍 Nearby activities The location is perfect for road trips, and there is a convenient parking lot. The surrounding area features primitive secondary forests, rivers, and lakes, where you can hike and experience the unique charm of nature. If you want to avoid the crowds during the Mid-Autumn Festival or National Day, this is the perfect place to enjoy a few days of slow living🍃 · 📍 Duolun County, Xilin Gol League

Help!! What kind of magical place is this 😭 Jiuquwan in Ulagai, Xilin Gol League, Inner Mongolia It's truly so beautiful it leaves you speechless!! Under the azure sky ☁️ Rolling green hills stretch as far as the eye can see ⛰️ The Ulagai River winds through the grassland Like a green silk ribbon gently fluttering ✨ Standing on high ground and looking out The river twists and turns Sparkling in the sunlight 🌟 Cattle and sheep graze leisurely in the distance It feels like being in a Hayao Miyazaki animation world 🎬 The grassland here isn't just a flat, endless expanse It's a landscape of rolling hills 🌿 The shades of green are distinct and layered Paired with the blue sky and white clouds Every snapshot is wallpaper-worthy 📱 Ladies! You really don't need filters here! Straight from the camera, every shot looks like a masterpiece 🎨 I recommend coming in the evening The view of the sunset reflecting on the river Is simply breathtaking 🌅

🥳 Mid-Autumn Festival meets National Day—the long holiday is here✨! If you don't want to squeeze into crowded tourist hotspots, head to Xilingol for a carefree wilderness adventure.🌾 With vast grasslands and hardcore geological wonders, the road trip offers endless scenery and perfect photo ops. This guide tells you how to play and what to shoot—read it and go! 🌋 Shitiaoshan | A geological wonder of volcanic stone columns from billions of years ago Navigation: Shitiaoshan, Taibus Banner (Free, pristine attraction) ✅ How to play · Park your car in the roadside lot and walk to the base of the stone columns. No admission ticket required🎟️. · View the vertically towering basalt columns from a distance and feel the power of volcanic geology🌋. · Do not climb the rock walls. The ground is loose and rocky, so wear non-slip shoes👟 and bring drinking water. 📸 How to shoot · Recommended shooting times: Before 10:00 AM and after 4:00 PM, when the light is soft and not harsh🌞. · Shoot from a low angle looking up at the columns, with people standing on the grassland below🍃 and the entire rock wall as a background🪨 for maximum atmosphere. · Wide shots: Frame the stone columns and the vast grassland together🖼️ to capture the sense of a boundless wilderness. 🌄 Pingdingshan Volcanic Group | A must-visit spot for legendary grassland sunsets Navigation: Pingdingshan Volcanic Geological Park, Xilinhot ✅ How to play · The volcanic peaks were "flattened" by nature🌋. You can see them from far away on the road—they are very recognizable. · Explore the volcanic landforms and lava traces during the day, but save time for the sunset in the evening🌇. · You can climb to the viewing platform to overlook the grasslands, wind turbines, and volcanic bodies. There are also great photo spots along the road🛣️. 📸 How to shoot · Arrive 1 hour before sunset to capture the moment the sun paints the mountains orange-red🌇. The backlit atmosphere is incredible. · Use a telephoto lens to shoot the volcanoes🖼️; shoot silhouettes facing the sunset for a storytelling feel. · It gets very windy in the evening🌀. For portraits, wear a bright-colored jacket to contrast with the dark volcanoes and golden sunset. 💡 Tip: Temperatures drop at night during the National Day holiday, so be sure to bring a thick jacket for the sunset🧥. 🍂 Luanhe Source National Forest Park | Golden elm forests in autumn Navigation: Luanhe Source National Forest Park, Duolun County ✅ How to play · This is a rare, century-old natural elm forest in Asia🌳. In autumn, the entire forest turns golden. Take a leisurely hike through the woods, stroll along the Luanhe River, cross the earthen suspension bridge, and enjoy the scenery of sand dunes🏖️, meadows, and river water. · If you're lucky, you might encounter wild rabbits🐰 or squirrels🐿️. It's perfect for a relaxing family trip away from the crowds. 📸 How to shoot · The diffused light in the forest is very friendly, making it great for photos even at noon📷. · With golden leaves covering the ground, capture candid shots while walking on the forest paths. Use the river water for reflection compositions. · Wear beige, khaki, or red clothing👚 to contrast with the golden leaves for better photos. 💡 Tip: The park is large, so allow 2–3 hours for your visit. 🦕 Erenhot National Geopark | Travel back to the Cretaceous dinosaur world ✅ How to play · One of the major dinosaur fossil regions in Asia, and a world-class site for large Cretaceous fossil deposits🦕. · Visit the dinosaur science museum to see real fossil specimens, explore geological ruins, and view giant dinosaur restoration models👍. · A great choice for family trips😉. Learn about paleontology while having fun—both adults and kids will enjoy it. 📸 How to shoot · Take photos with the giant dinosaur sculptures🖼️. Use a wide-angle lens for a grand, stunning effect. · Shoot fossil exhibits in the museum hall🔭. Outdoors, the Gobi landscape combined with dinosaur models creates a sci-fi blockbuster feel. 💡 Tip: Erenhot is at a high latitude, so it is windy and dry🌀. Wear a hat and sunglasses🧢🕶️, and drink plenty of water. 🚗 No backtracking for Mid-Autumn & National Day | 5-day, 4-night self-drive loop✨ Day 1 | Various locations → Taibus Banner🏕️ After arrival, visit the Shitiaoshan volcanic stone column landforms. Stroll through the grasslands in the evening🍃, taste local hand-grabbed mutton🍗, and stay overnight in Taibus Banner. Day 2 | Taibus Banner → Duolun🍂 Head to Luanhe Source National Forest Park🌳 to enjoy the golden autumn elm forest and Luanhe River valley scenery. Arrive in Duolun in the evening to rest and stay in Duolun County. Day 3 | Duolun → Xilinhot🌋 Drive north through the grasslands. Arrive at the Pingdingshan Volcanic Group in the afternoon to watch the sunset over the volcanic grasslands🌅. Stay overnight in downtown Xilinhot. Day 4 | Xilinhot → Erenhot🌄 Drive west along the geological landscape highway to Erenhot National Geopark🦕. Visit the dinosaur ruins, experience the scenery of the border town, and stay in Erenhot. Day 5 | Erenhot → Return trip🚙 ✨ Optional experience: Unlock a cross-border day trip with just your ID card🇲🇳 🚶 Visit the exotic town of Zamyn-Uud in Mongolia and browse the unique duty-free shops. 📝 Important travel tips for the holidays ✅ There is a large temperature difference between day and night on the grasslands, so be sure to bring a jacket or a light down jacket. ✅ Distances between attractions are long, so don't try to visit too many spots in one day. Prioritize self-driving and manage your driving time reasonably🚗. ✅ UV rays are strong, so keep sunglasses🕶️, hats🧢, and sunscreen handy. Signal is weak in some grassland areas📶, so download offline maps in advance. ✅ Do not drive over pristine grasslands at will. Respect local customs and take all your trash with you🚮. This Mid-Autumn and National Day, say goodbye to the city hustle and bustle and head to the wild Xilingol. See volcanoes, chase sunsets🌇, explore golden autumn forests, and uncover the home of dinosaurs—🎉 unlock a different kind of grassland vacation! Images provided by Vast Grassland Xilingol Culture and Tourism

The Mid-Autumn Festival holiday is short and the budget is tight, but that shouldn't stop you from traveling. I've visited eight places for you and figured out how to save money while having a great time. Just follow my lead. 01 Jilin Songhua Lake and Wusong Island are actually best visited in different seasons. Visiting Songhua Lake during the Mid-Autumn Festival is perfect for a boat tour to see the colorful autumn foliage on both banks. The admission ticket plus boat ticket is just over 100 RMB, which is much cheaper than in peak season. There's no rime on Wusong Island right now, but the sunrise by the river and the reed marshes are very photogenic and free. 🚄 A taxi from Jilin Station to Songhua Lake costs about 50 RMB. To save money, take bus No. 33 to Fengman Street and walk for 10 minutes. ⚠️ The last boat departs at 4:00 PM, so don't miss it. Stay in downtown Jilin; you can find clean and comfortable accommodation for around 150 RMB, which is more cost-effective than lakeside guesthouses. 🍜 In the evening, head to Henan Street for a bowl of jianfen (pan-fried starch noodles) with a tea egg. You can eat your fill for about 20 RMB per person. 02 Xilingol League | Inner Mongolia During the Mid-Autumn Festival, the grass on the Ulagai Grassland has started to turn yellow, but that sense of vastness is even more striking than in summer. Driving is the only convenient way to get around. It takes about 3 hours from downtown Xilinhot, and gas plus tolls will cost under 300 RMB round trip. 📍 The grassland near the Bingtuan Town has gentle slopes, perfect for laying out a picnic blanket and relaxing. Remember to bring a windbreaker. ⚠️ Cell signal on the grassland is spotty, so download offline maps in advance. Fill up your tank whenever you see a gas station; don't gamble on the next one. To save on accommodation, stay with a herdsman's family in Bayinhushuo Town. It costs 80 RMB per night and includes breakfast and dinner, with plenty of milk tea and hand-grabbed mutton. There are fewer mosquitoes this season, but the temperature difference between day and night can reach 15 degrees, so don't worry about taking up space with a light down jacket. 03 Zhoushan | Zhejiang If you're going to Zhoushan for the Mid-Autumn Festival, just choose between Mount Putuo and the Shengsi Islands; you won't have enough time for both. I recommend the Shengsi Islands. You can visit Gouqi Island and Shengshan Island together—the water is bluer and there are fewer crowds. 🚄 There's a combined bus and ferry ticket from the Shanghai Nanpu Bridge Long-distance Bus Station for about 150 RMB that goes directly to Gouqi Island, which is easier than going via Ningbo. Accommodation on the island is 200 RMB on weekdays but will rise to over 300 RMB during the Mid-Autumn Festival, so book a week in advance to snag a deal. 🍜 A bowl of seafood noodles in Dawang Village on Gouqi Island costs 30 RMB and is packed with ingredients. ⚠️ Ferry schedules in Shengsi are heavily affected by weather, so be sure to buy your return ticket a day in advance and confirm the sailing. Mount Putuo is better for traveling with elders. The admission ticket is 160 RMB plus a 30 RMB ferry ticket, with incense offerings costing extra. Prices on the island are high—a bottle of water is 8 RMB, so bring a couple with you. 04 Yantai | Shandong Penglai Pavilion and Changdao Island are a classic combination for a Mid-Autumn trip to Yantai, but don't try to do both in one day. Spend the morning at Penglai Pavilion; the admission ticket is 100 RMB. The view of the sea from the top is expansive, and two hours is enough. For lunch, have mackerel dumplings in downtown Penglai. 📍 The old shop at Mozhikou Market charges 38 RMB per plate, which is enough for two people. In the afternoon, go to the Pengchang Passenger Port to take a ferry to Changdao Island; the ticket is 45 RMB and the trip takes half an hour. For Changdao, I recommend staying at a fishing guesthouse on the south island, which costs 200 RMB per person and includes three meals with plenty of seafood. ⚠️ Attractions on Changdao are scattered. A chartered car costs 150 RMB per day. Don't trust the "low-price island tours" offered by people on the street; they are all just shopping stops. If you're short on time, you can skip Longkou Nanshan. It's a Chinese-style garden with a 120 RMB admission fee, but it's not great value for money—better to stay an extra night on Changdao. 05 Huanggang | Hubei Both Tiantangzhai in Luotian and Guifeng Mountain in Macheng are great for hiking during the Mid-Autumn Festival, but they have different styles. The waterfall group at Tiantangzhai is still in its high-water period with loud rushing water. The boardwalks are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. The admission ticket plus scenic transport is 100 RMB, and a one-way cable car ride is 60 RMB. I recommend hiking up and taking the cable car down to see all the scenery without wearing out your legs. Guifeng Mountain is known for its strange rock formations and ancient azaleas, but the azaleas have long faded by the Mid-Autumn Festival. If you go, just treat it as a pure hiking workout. The admission ticket is 70 RMB. 🍜 Try the "hanging pot" (diaoguo) on the old street in Luotian County at the foot of the mountain—cured meat with dried bamboo shoots for 35 RMB per person, hot and satisfying. ⚠️ It's recommended to arrive at both mountains before 8:00 AM. The parking lots are small, and if you arrive late, you'll have to park on the side of the road and walk a long way. To save money, stay at a farmhouse guesthouse at the foot of the mountain for 120 RMB per night so you can continue exploring the next day. 06 Zhuzhou | Hunan The Mausoleum of Emperor Yan is better suited for those interested in history and culture; if you're just looking for thrills, you can skip this stop. It takes about 2.5 hours by bus from downtown Zhuzhou to Yanling County, costing 45 RMB, and then another 20 RMB by taxi from the county seat. The admission ticket is 80 RMB. The scenic area isn't huge, and two hours is enough to see it thoroughly. I recommend hiring a guide for 60 RMB; otherwise, you're just looking at a bunch of stone tablets and halls, as the stories are all in the commentary. 🍜 Outside the scenic area entrance, there's a stall selling mugwort rice cakes for 3 RMB each. They're pan-fried on the spot and better than the boxed lunches inside the scenic area. ⚠️ The sacrificial hall closes at 5:00 PM, so don't arrive right at closing time. If it's too late to return, accommodation in Yanling County is inexpensive; you can get a standard room with a window for 100 RMB. 07 Baoting | Hainan Binglanggu and Yanoda are close to each other but have completely different vibes—one focuses on culture, the other on rainforest activities. Binglanggu is a living exhibition of Li and Miao villages. The admission ticket is 96 RMB, and you can see elderly women with facial tattoos weaving Li brocade—that's real craftsmanship, not a performance. Yanoda focuses on tropical rainforest experiences. The admission ticket plus sightseeing bus is 150 RMB, and the waterfall trekking activity costs an extra 100 RMB, which young people will enjoy. ⏰ I recommend Binglanggu in the morning and Yanoda in the afternoon; they are on the same route, and a taxi ride costs 30 RMB. 🍜 The bamboo rice at the entrance of Binglanggu costs 15 RMB; the glutinous rice mixed with the aroma of meat is more substantial than the 30 RMB set meals inside the scenic area. ⚠️ The sun in Hainan doesn't care if it's the Mid-Autumn Festival or not, so be sure to wear sunscreen. Wearing a hat is more convenient than using an umbrella. There are many hotels in Baoting County for around 100 RMB; don't stay inside the scenic area, as the markup is significant. 08 Yuxi | Yunnan Fuxian Lake and Ailao Mountain offer two different ways to travel—one is relaxing, the other is hardcore. Cycling around Fuxian Lake is the best way to experience it. Rent an electric scooter for 60 RMB a day and ride from Luchong Scenic Area towards Haikou Town; it's less crowded and the scenery is beautiful. Stop at a roadside farmhouse guesthouse for copper-pot fish, which costs about 50 RMB per person—the fish soup is incredibly fresh. ⚠️ Fuxian Lake is deep, so don't go into the water in non-swimming areas; accidents happen every year. Ailao Mountain is suitable for driving. It takes two hours of winding mountain roads to drive from Xinping County. There's a high chance of seeing a sea of clouds in the mountains during the Mid-Autumn Festival, but when it's foggy, visibility can be less than five meters, so novice drivers should avoid it. The Shimenxia Scenic Area in the mountains has a 40 RMB admission ticket. The boardwalk is built along the stream; it's cool but slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. 🍜 Try the Huayao Dai beef soup pot in Gasa Town at the foot of the mountain for 40 RMB per person; it'll warm you right up. For these eight places, the budget is controlled between 600–1,000 RMB per person. With the Mid-Autumn full moon, instead of staying home scrolling through your phone watching others travel, why not pick one near you and set off? My personal ranking: Shengsi Islands for the most healing sea views, Changdao for the most satisfying seafood, and Fuxian Lake for the most relaxing cycling. Which one are you tempted by? Let me know in the comments!

1️⃣ Yinchuan | Ningxia Bringing parents to Yinchuan, the biggest concern is too much walking. My strategy: Start the morning at Mingcui Lake National Wetland Park. The water is wide, the boardwalks are flat, and you can even push a wheelchair around most of the loop. The breeze in the reed marshes is cool, and my parents were so excited to take photos that we easily strolled around for 2 hours. ⏰ Best to arrive before 9:00 AM. It's less crowded, the light is soft, and the reflections look clean. For lunch, head back to the city for some hand-grabbed lamb. I recommend the small eateries around Jiefang Street in the old town; the meat is tender, and dipping it in vinegar cuts the greasiness. In the afternoon, head to the Western Xia Imperial Tombs. Don't climb the tomb towers; just take the scenic shuttle bus directly to the museum. After seeing the indoor exhibits, you can view the Helan Mountains in the background without walking too much. ⚠️ The tomb area is windy, so bring a light jacket for your parents. 🚄 It takes about 40 mins by taxi from Yinchuan Station to the Western Xia Imperial Tombs, costing around CNY 60. I don't recommend taking the bus. If you still have energy before leaving, visit the Helan Mountain Rock Art to see the sun god on the rock face. The mountain paths are flat and easy to walk. 2️⃣ Haibei | Qinghai The scenery in Haibei is on the road, so don't rush to get to attractions. The Qilian Mountain grasslands are greenest in July and August. Driving along the national highway, anywhere you stop looks like a desktop wallpaper. I recommend hiring a car for the day to visit Qilian Mountain and the Heihe Grand Canyon. The driver will know the roads and can avoid crowded spots. Your parents can enjoy the view from the car and only get out when you see something nice, saving energy. Lenglongling is best viewed from a distance; don't try hiking, as high-altitude climbing isn't friendly for seniors. The Amidongsuo Scenic Area has wooden boardwalks that are flat and easy to walk, but the altitude is over 3,000 meters, so walk slowly and have oxygen tanks ready. 🍜 Have lunch in Epu Town—a bowl of yak beef noodles is hot and filling. ⚠️ The temperature difference in Qinghai is large. It gets chilly after 5:00 PM, so remember to add a windbreaker for your parents. Don't pack the itinerary too full; 2–3 spots a day is enough. Leave time to nap in the car and watch the clouds. 3️⃣ Ma'anshan | Anhui Bringing parents to Ma'anshan? Head straight to Caishiji. The entire scenic area stretches along the Yangtze River. The best way to see it is to enter from the North Gate, see Taibai Pavilion first, and then slowly walk along the riverside path toward Sanyuan Cave. The path is flat with no big steps, and you can stop and go to watch the river boats pass by. Your parents won't feel tired. 🍜 There are several river seafood restaurants at the entrance of the scenic area. The knife fish wontons are worth a try; the broth is fresh. The most effortless way to enjoy Caishiji is to take the scenic electric cart to the foot of Cuiluo Mountain, then just climb a short section to Santai Pavilion to overlook the bend in the Yangtze River. ⏰ Go up to the pavilion after 3:00 PM for the best light, when the river surface glitters with gold. ⚠️ It's crowded on weekends and the electric carts have lines, so I recommend coming on a weekday. The whole scenic area takes 2–3 hours to explore, which is a perfect pace without rushing. In the evening, head back to the city for a bowl of Dangtu big meat noodles; your parents will be satisfied. 4️⃣ Xilingol | Inner Mongolia The Wulagai Grassland is perfect for a "don't go anywhere, just sit on the grass and watch the clouds" kind of trip. When bringing parents, don't plan too many attractions. Find a herdsman's homestay to stay at, take walks on the grassland during the day, and watch the sunset in the evening. 📍 The grassland near Halagaitu is high quality and less crowded, so you can enjoy the whole expanse of green to yourself. ⏰ From late June to early August is the most beautiful season on the grassland, with wildflowers blooming and grass deeper than your knees. The temperature difference between day and night is large; wear short sleeves at noon, but put on a fleece jacket as soon as the sun sets. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes on the grassland, so prepare mosquito repellent for your parents. 🚄 It takes about 2 hours to hire a car from Xilinhot city, and the scenery along the way is worth it in itself. 🍜 In the evening, have hand-grabbed meat and milk tea. The yogurt made by the herdsmen is especially thick and goes perfectly with fried rice. The whole trip isn't rushed—just zoning out, walking, and eating. It's the ceiling of lazy family travel. 5️⃣ Yuxi | Yunnan Fuxian Lake is quieter than Erhai Lake and more suitable for bringing parents. The East Lake Loop Road is well-maintained; rent a car and drive slowly, stopping whenever you see a bay you like. Luchong Scenic Area has cheap tickets, and the beach is flat, so seniors can wade in the water. ⏰ The lake water is clearest before 10:00 AM, and you can see stones 4–5 meters underwater. For lunch, have copper pot fish by the lake; the fish is tender and the soup is incredibly fresh. In the afternoon, go to the Ailao Mountain wind gap. Don't go deep into the mountains; just enjoy the breeze at the observation deck at the foot of the mountain. ⚠️ The mountain roads are winding, so if your parents get carsick easily, have them take motion sickness medicine in advance. 🍜 The lotus root starch sold by Fuxian Lake is freshly made and topped with rose sugar; seniors love it. The pace in Yuxi is slow and prices are low. Staying 1 night in a lakeside homestay and watching the sunrise the next morning is much more comfortable than rushing to attractions. 6️⃣ Beihai | Guangxi Beihai is suitable for bringing parents to escape the cold in winter, or to eat seafood in autumn. Weizhou Island is worth staying 1 night, but the boat trip to the island takes about 1 hour, so prepare medicine in advance if your parents get seasick. After arriving on the island, rent an electric scooter to go around; don't ride bicycles, as it's sunny and tiring. 📍 Crocodile Mountain Scenic Area has boardwalks built along the sea. It's windy with rough waves and magnificent scenery, but there are many steps. For seniors with bad knees, I suggest just looking from the observation deck. Beihai Silver Beach is more effortless. The sand is fine and the water is shallow. Go around 5:00 PM when the sun isn't harsh and the seawater has been warmed up. ⚠️ Silver Beach is free, but fresh water showers and luggage storage cost money, so agree on the price in advance. 🍜 In the evening, go to Qiaogang Style Street. Vietnamese rice rolls and sweet soup are standard, and you can eat until you're full for CNY 30 per person. Overall consumption in Beihai is low, and seafood is cheaper than inland, but check the price unit before weighing to avoid being scammed by "market price." 7️⃣ Bortala | Xinjiang Sayram Lake is worth a special flight. When bringing parents, don't join a tour group and rush; I recommend staying 1 night by the lake. The lake loop road is 90 km long. Take the scenic bus or hire a car; every stop is unbelievably beautiful. 📍 The water-friendly beach near the South Gate has water so blue it looks fake; seniors will gasp when they see it. ⏰ Sunrise and sunset are the most stunning moments at Sayram Lake. The light hits the snow-capped mountains, and the lake water changes into several colors. ⚠️ It's extremely windy by the lake, so tie your hat strings and prepare windproof jackets for your parents. Anjihai Grand Canyon is a bit far from Sayram Lake; if time is tight, you can skip it and stay in Wenquan County to soak in a hot spring, which is more comfortable. 🍜 There is a Kazakh-run restaurant in Wenquan County where the pilaf and barbecue are authentic and the portions are generous. The distances between attractions in Xinjiang are long, so only plan 1 main point per day and prepare pillows and snacks for the time in the car. 8️⃣ Ganzhou | Jiangxi Ganzhou is suitable for visiting in spring and autumn. Walking the ancient city with parents isn't tiring. The stone city is the core, the ancient city wall is well-preserved, and walking along the Gong River, the road is flat and the shade is dense. 📍 The Jianchunmen ancient pontoon bridge is still in use. Walking on it is wobbly, which seniors find novel without being too dizzying. ⏰ Go to the pontoon bridge at 7:00 AM to see locals carrying vegetable baskets across the river, full of local life. Sanbai Mountain is far from the city, suitable for families with plenty of time. The scenic area has a cable car; after going up, you can walk a short wooden boardwalk to see the waterfall group without climbing too many mountains. ⚠️ The boardwalk is slippery in the rainy season, so have your parents wear non-slip shoes. 🍜 Ganzhou cuisine is on the spicy side, so remember to ask for less spice and less salt when dining with seniors. I recommend trying Ningdu meatballs and Xinfeng radish dumplings, which are soft and easy to chew. The overall cost of living in Ganzhou is affordable, the pace is slow, and it's suitable for a slow stroll over 2–3 days. That's all 8 places. If your parents are fit and love water, Yinchuan and Sayram Lake are the top choices. If you just want to find a place to lie down, eat, and drink, Ma'anshan and Beihai are more suitable. Which ones have you taken your parents to? Let's chat in the comments and show the way for others.

The Xilingol Museum in Inner Mongolia is relatively small and is currently a national second-grade museum. It focuses primarily on the Xilingol League, introducing local history, culture, and ethnic customs, while displaying a selection of unearthed artifacts. It also serves some functions of a natural history museum, with an exhibition hall that recreates the dinosaur era of the ancient grasslands, featuring many dinosaur and ancient animal fossils. The largest exhibit is a complete Mamenchisaurus fossil. Mamenchisaurus is a dinosaur native to China and is one of the largest dinosaur species. [Cute] Among the artifacts on display at the Xilingol Museum, a one-horned bronze beast is particularly eye-catching. It has a silly expression and a "cute but fierce" look that is absolutely adorable. I think this one-horned bronze beast would be incredibly popular if turned into a figurine or cultural merchandise. [TeaDrinker] The museum's special exhibitions include: "A Brief History of Xilingol," "Ancient Memories," "Ulan Muqir Special Exhibition," "Miniature of the Vast Grassland, My Home—Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition," "Site of Xanadu," "Socialist Core Values—Exhibition on the Deeds of Moral Models in Xilingol, the Grassland," and "Exhibition of the Northern Wei Tombs in Yihe Nuoer." Location: Xilingol Cultural Park, Xilinhot Economic Development Zone Opening hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Mondays The Xilingol Museum does not get very crowded. Currently, no advance reservation is required; simply bring your ID.

September weather is just right, but your wallet might be crying for help. Don't worry, I've dug up 8 niche destinations you can conquer for CNY 500. Mountains, water, ancient cities—they're uncrowded, beautiful, and won't rip you off. Here's your hardcore money-saving guide. Just follow along. 01 Xinxiang | Henan Baoquan Tourist Area is the biggest surprise—the water is emerald green, and you'll hear waterfalls the whole way along the boardwalk. Admission + shuttle is about CNY 100, with no extra costs inside. Great value. Go early in the morning; the light hitting the canyon makes the water shimmer—perfect for photos. Baligou is better for hikers. It takes about 4 hours. The highlight is Tianhe Waterfall; the mist is so refreshing it doesn't feel like September. ⚠️ The light in the mountains fades quickly after 3:00 PM, making photos look dark, so try to reach the top before 2:00 PM. Pick one—Baoquan is more relaxing, Baligou is more for hiking. Stay in Huixian city; a standard room is CNY 80 and clean. 02 Chongqing Don't assume Chongqing is expensive. Dazu Rock Carvings tickets are just over CNY 100, but student IDs get you half off. The carvings have been embedded in the cliffs for a thousand years—the details are more stunning than you'd imagine. Hire a guide, or you'll just be looking at rocks. 📍 Beishan and Baodingshan are sold separately; if you're short on time, just go to Baodingshan. Jinyun Mountain is practically free. The hiking trails are free, and the view from the top overlooks the entire Beibei district. The evening sea of clouds looks like cotton candy. If you're not a big hiker, take the cable car up for CNY 40 and walk down—saves energy and money. ⚠️ There are lots of mosquitoes in the mountains, so wear long pants and sleeves. For dinner, head to Jiefangbei for a bowl of Xiaomian—CNY 8 per bowl, spicy and fragrant. 🚄 It costs less than CNY 10 to get from the city center to Jinyun Mountain by subway and bus. 03 Shenzhen Shenzhen being expensive is a stereotype. Dameisha Beach Park is free, and the water in September is clean and clear, with soft sand. ⚠️ It gets packed on weekends. If you want peace and quiet, go on a weekday afternoon—the whole beach will be yours. Showers and lockers cost CNY 20 total. Remember to bring your own swim ring. Window of the World tickets are pricey—over CNY 200 to see miniatures—I don't think it's worth it. For the city skyline, go to OCT Creative Park. It's free, and the streets, converted from old factories, are full of cafes and graffiti walls—much better for photos than the tourist spots. 📍 Old Heaven Books in the park is worth a visit; with second-hand books and vinyl records, you can spend the whole afternoon there. The "leisure tourist area" at Mission Hills is a bit high-end. 04 Changzhou | Jiangsu The biggest surprise in Changzhou is the Yancheng Tourist Area. The ancient layout of three cities and three rivers is unique, and tickets are CNY 80. There are many performances in the Spring and Autumn Park, but don't rush to take photos. I recommend walking through the ruins area first. The bamboo boardwalks over the water are so quiet you can hear the birds—much more interesting than the man-made amusement area. Tianmu Lake is famous, but tickets plus the boat ride cost over CNY 150. If you're on a budget, just walk the free trails by the lake for the same view of green water and mountains. If you really want to go to the island, wait for the half-price tickets after 4:30 PM and catch the last boat to see the sunset—it's cheap and romantic. Global Dinosaur Town is great for kids, but it's too expensive for budget travelers, and the lines are long. 🍜 For dinner, have a bowl of silver thread noodles—they're as thin as hair, and the broth is incredibly fresh. About CNY 20 per person. 05 Baoding | Hebei This place is perfect for September. The Western Qing Tombs are in Yi County. Tickets are CNY 80, but the tomb area is huge—you'll be exhausted from walking. ⚠️ Be sure to take the shuttle bus; CNY 20 saves you two hours of walking. The glazed tiles on Yongzheng's tomb shimmer coldly in the sun, and combined with the scent of pine and cypress, the solemnity is palpable. Baishi Mountain is more rugged. The cliff boardwalk hangs halfway up the mountain, with a bottomless abyss beneath your feet. Tickets plus the cable car are about CNY 140—a bit pricey, but worth it. ⏰ There are fewer people on the mountain before 10:00 AM, and the clouds haven't dispersed yet, so walking on the boardwalk feels like stepping on clouds. If you're afraid of heights, don't look down—just look straight ahead. Choose between Yesanpo and Baishi Mountain; they have similar styles. I saved one day for Baiyangdian. Take a boat from Anxin Pier into the reed marshes. A boat costs CNY 60 and holds 4 people—splitting the cost is more economical. 06 Fuzhou | Jiangxi Dajueshan is the most off-the-beaten-path and surprising spot on this trip. Tickets plus the shuttle are CNY 70, and the cable car is an extra CNY 50. I highly recommend taking it because climbing takes three hours, while the cable car takes ten minutes—the energy you save is enough to enjoy the summit for half a day. 📍 The space walkway at the top is a glass boardwalk spanning two peaks. Looking down at the deep green valley makes your heart race, but it's worth the walk. Dajueshan in September is at its most colorful. The maple leaves on the mountain are starting to turn yellow, mixing with the evergreen broad-leaved forest like a spilled palette. Don't rush off after coming down the mountain. The ancient town at the entrance is free. The shops on both sides of the bluestone road sell Zixi bread. Fresh out of the oven, they're only CNY 5 each—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, much better than the chain stores in the city. 07 Xilin Gol League | Inner Mongolia Wulagai Grassland is the real hidden gem of September. The grass, which is green in July and August, turns golden brown by mid-September. With the blue sky and white clouds, it's like walking into a Windows desktop wallpaper. ⚠️ There's a large temperature difference between day and night on the grassland. It's short sleeves during the day, but you'll need a down jacket at night—a thick coat is a must. Carpool from Xilinhot city for about CNY 100 per person; the drive takes two hours. There's no admission fee for the grassland itself. Horse riding is CNY 80 a lap. If you want to save money, just walk—the soft meadow under your feet and the dry, grassy scent in the wind are enough. 📍 The Wulagai River winds through the grassland. Find a flat spot by the river, sit down, and watch the cloud shadows race across the grass—you can zone out for an entire afternoon. For accommodation, choose a yurt for one night—CNY 120 per person includes breakfast and dinner, with plenty of hand-grabbed mutton and milk tea. 08 Jinzhong | Shanxi Jinzhong is a budget traveler's paradise for ancient architecture lovers. Entering Pingyao Ancient City is free; you only need the CNY 125 pass to climb the city walls and enter attractions. I suggest skipping the pass and just wandering the streets of the ancient city. The old houses and former bank sites along Ming-Qing Street are beautiful—the brick carvings on the lintels alone are worth half an hour of photos. ⚠️ Don't take the "tourist cars" in the ancient city; CNY 30 for a short loop is a waste. Walking yourself lets you explore deep into the alleys. Choose between the Qiao Family Compound and the Wang Family Compound—I vote for Wang. The Qiao compound is famous but crowded. The Wang compound is in Lingshi County, several times larger than the Qiao compound, built against the mountain, and feels like a maze inside, but it's less crowded. Tickets are CNY 55, and the audio guide is CNY 20. Put it on, listen slowly, and you can explore all day. 🍜 For dinner, have a bowl of Pingyao Wantuo—smooth and refreshing—and a plate of Kaolaolao. About CNY 30 per person for a full meal.

I once swore, "I'm never coming back again" 🙅‍♀️ The grasslands in September have indeed faded from green to a golden carpet~ But! I encountered the most stunning herd of horses in my life! 🐎 📍Location: Xilin Jiuquwan Tourist Area, Xilinhot (East side of Xizhang Expressway, Xilinhot City, Xilin Gol League, Inner Mongolia; open all day, all year round) Sunlight spilled over the grassland, and a few horses were grazing leisurely 🌾 They were sturdy, their coats glistening in the sun ✨ In that moment, I suddenly understood what they meant by the "soul of the grassland" 💫 Although I didn't see the lush green grassland of summer, the autumn grassland paired with these magnificent steeds is a completely different kind of breathtaking! Golden background + horse silhouettes, every shot is a masterpiece 📸 Ladies, don't make the same mistake I did by chasing the green grass 🐛 But if you want to see super handsome horses, autumn is definitely worth it! (Quietly: The horses are gentler than you'd imagine, you can observe them up close~)

01 Yuncheng | Shanxi When visiting Yuncheng with kids, don't rush straight to the Guandi Temple. Spend half a day at the Salt Lake first. 📍 The colorful mirror-like surface of Yuncheng Salt Lake is most beautiful in September when the sky is high and clear. The white crystals on the shore crunch underfoot, and kids might mistake them for snow. Younger children can play in the shallow water by the lake, so remember to bring an extra set of clothes. Elementary school-aged children can understand the principle of "Dead Sea floating," which is a great opportunity to share some geography knowledge. ⚠️ Avoid visiting during the scorching noon hours, as the salt lake's reflection is blinding. After 5:00 PM, the light softens, and the lake turns a pinkish-purple—perfect for photos without filters. For an easier experience, take the scenic electric shuttle around the lake. The full loop takes about 40 mins and allows you to hop on and off without getting tired. 02 Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai This stop has so much to offer that I recommend splitting it into two itineraries based on your child's age. Elementary schoolers will be curious about the Qarhan Salt Lake and Emerald Lake; the former features the "Ten Thousand Zhang Salt Bridge," while the latter looks like spilled green paint, with visible color variations. Middle schoolers and older can challenge the Kunlun Mountain Pass. It's high altitude and windy, but seeing the snow-capped mountains right in front of them brings the "Kunlun Mountains" from their textbooks to life. 📍 Chaka Salt Lake is best visited on a clear morning when the water is calm enough to capture reflections. ⚠️ Once the afternoon wind picks up, the lake surface ripples, ruining any chance of reflections. The drive between Emerald Lake and Qarhan Salt Lake is about 2 hours. Don't try to do both in one day, or the kids will be too exhausted to continue. 03 Xilingol League | Inner Mongolia In September, the grass in the Ulagai Grassland begins to turn yellow, but this mix of gold and green creates a layered look that is more photogenic than the pure green of midsummer. When traveling with kids, don't try to "check off every attraction." The best way to experience the grassland is to stop at a local herder's home. Kids can feed lambs, watch milking, and help herd horses back to the corral in the evening—an experience far more valuable than any tourist site. 📍 About 20 km east of the Ulagai Management Area, there's a valley with fewer people and dense grass, perfect for laying out a picnic blanket. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is significant. You'll need short sleeves during the day, but a fleece jacket as soon as the sun sets. I don't recommend overnight camping for younger children; yurts have poor sound insulation, and if they don't sleep well, they'll be cranky the next day. 04 Beihai | Guangxi I recommend splitting Weizhou Island and Beihai Silver Beach into two days; don't expect to finish both in one. The sand at Silver Beach is fine and white, feeling like flour under bare feet. Younger kids can spend all day digging sand pits here. 📍 The area near the East Gate of Silver Beach is half as crowded as the main entrance, and parasol rentals are ¥10 cheaper. Weizhou Island is better suited for elementary schoolers and older. The boat ride takes about 1 hour, so take motion sickness medicine 30 mins beforehand. The volcanic rock walls at Crocodile Mountain on the island serve as a natural geography lesson, and you can spot small crabs in the tide pools. ⚠️ The tail end of typhoon season isn't quite over in September, so be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out to sea. If the winds and waves are strong, ferry services can be suspended without notice. It's more cost-effective to buy seafood at the market and have it cooked at a restaurant than to order a set meal, but be sure to ask in advance if the processing fee is charged by weight or by dish. 05 Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan For the Shangri-La route, I'm most worried about you trying to do too much. If you try to cram Tiger Leaping Gorge, Pudacuo, Songzanlin Monastery, and Baishuitai into four days, your child will just be stuck in a cycle of sleeping in the car and posing for photos when they get out. If your child has average stamina, prioritize Pudacuo. The wooden boardwalks are flat, and the meadows and yaks at Shudu Lake are enough to keep them entertained for half a day. 📍 Baishuitai is better for families who enjoy hiking. The terraced calcified pools formed by calcium carbonate deposits look like a giant cream cake. Elementary schoolers will ask "how was this formed," which is a perfect chance to teach them something new. ⚠️ At altitudes above 3,000 meters, don't let children run or engage in strenuous exercise. Songzanlin Monastery has many steps; if younger kids get tired, it's perfectly fine to rent an oxygen canister for them to carry. The boardwalk at Tiger Leaping Gorge is narrow and hugs the cliff. If you're afraid of heights, don't push yourself. Hold your child's hand, walk on the inside, and don't lean over the edge for photos. 06 Ganzhou | Jiangxi I strongly recommend planning the Ganzhou route as a "textbook trip." The Danxia landforms at Tongtianzhai in Shicheng feature red rock peaks as neat as if they were cut with a knife, helping middle and high school students intuitively understand the "Danxia" landforms from their geography books. Sanbai Mountain is better for younger and middle-grade children. 📍 The trail at the Dongjiang Source Waterfall Group is well-maintained, and you can even push a stroller for the first third of the way. There are farmhouses at the foot of the mountain serving freshly picked vegetables and freshly slaughtered chicken, which is much better than tourist fast food. ⚠️ Mobile signal is weak inside the Sanbai Mountain scenic area, so download offline maps in advance. Buy admission tickets and sightseeing shuttle tickets separately; don't let scalpers at the entrance trick you into buying "cheaper" bundled tickets. In September, the navel oranges in southern Ganzhou aren't fully ripe yet, but you can buy a few green tangerines from roadside stalls. They'll be sour enough to make your child frown, which is a fun sensory memory. 07 Xianning | Hubei Don't expect children to understand the Chibi Ancient Battlefield on their own. Spend 10 mins telling them the general story beforehand. When they see the "Chibi" characters carved into the cliff by the river, they'll finally have that "aha" moment. 📍 The Three Kingdoms sculpture group in the scenic area is perfect for a "name the character" game for elementary schoolers. One point for each character identified; collect 10 points to trade for a popsicle. ⚠️ There are only two live performances a day, and the afternoon show usually starts at 3:30 PM. Seating is first-come, first-served, so don't arrive right at the last minute. For middle schoolers and older, you can hire a guide for about ¥80 an hour; they are much more engaging than the electronic audio guide. It's windy by the river in September, so bring an extra light jacket for your child to wear when watching the sunset in the evening. 08 Guyuan | Ningxia The Xumishan Grottoes are the most niche of these eight destinations, but they surprised me the most. 📍 The grottoes are built into the mountain. It takes about 40 mins to climb from the bottom to the top. The steps aren't steep, and 7 or 8-year-olds can walk it themselves. The Great Buddha in the largest grotto, Cave 5, is over 20 meters tall. Standing at its feet and looking up, children will be quiet for several seconds. This sense of awe is more effective than any lecture. ⚠️ It's dark inside the grottoes, so don't use flash when taking photos—it protects the artifacts and doesn't help with the picture anyway. The scenic area guides are free, but the tour lasts 1.5 hours, which might make younger kids impatient. Bring some snacks to feed them in the rest area. In September, Guyuan is cool in the morning and evening but hot under the midday sun, so "onion-style" layering is most practical. There are local goji berries and honey for sale at the foot of the mountain, which are cheaper than in city supermarkets, but don't buy loose medicinal herbs—it's a risky market. Of these eight places, I personally prefer Haixi and Guyuan—they are uncrowded, have wild scenery, and leave a lasting impression. When traveling with kids, you don't always have to go to the most popular spots; sometimes the niche ones hide the most fulfilling experiences. Where are you planning to take your kids this September? If you're undecided, let's chat in the comments, and I'll help you plan.

The starting point of the most beautiful prairie highway is right here! 🚏 Endless grasslands, cattle, horses, and sheep everywhere 🐂🐎🐑—this is the real "cattle and horse" life! 😎 My little motorcycle 🏍️ is parked at the West Ujimqin Banner parking lot (daytime), ready to start my prairie racing mode~ 💨 📍 Check-in spot: Xilingol Grassland Address: East side of Zhagesitai Scenic Area National Nature Reserve, Xilingol Grassland Opening hours: Open all year round, 24/7 📍 Check-in spot: Starting point of Highway 99, West Ujimqin Banner Address: Starting point of the central line of Highway 99, G207 National Highway, West Ujimqin Banner, Xilingol League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Opening hours: Open all year round, 24/7 Come here to experience the breathtaking sight of cattle and sheep grazing in the wind 🌿—every photo you take is wallpaper-worthy! 📸!

If you can only choose one route this autumn, I'd highly recommend Inner Mongolia. Starting from Beijing, head all the way north: Beijing → Xilin Gol League → Arxan → Hailar → Ergun → Genhe → Shiwei This isn't just about visiting a single attraction; it's about watching autumn deepen as you drive. The grasslands of Xilin Gol lose their midsummer green and start to turn yellow. When you reach Arxan, the entire forest looks like an overturned paint palette, with layers of golden yellow, orange-red, and dark green. Continuing north to Hailar and Ergun, grasslands, wetlands, and birch forests appear one after another. The stretch from Genhe to Shiwei is what I'm looking forward to most. Outside the car window are golden forests and winding roads, with occasional wooden houses, pastures, and rivers. The closer you get to the border, the more it feels like "driving into a fairy tale." 📸 Photo recommendations: Arxan forest, Ergun wetlands, Genhe birch forests, and the sunset at Shiwei. ⚠️ Temperatures in the north drop very quickly in autumn, and there is a significant temperature difference between day and night, so be sure to bring a down jacket or a windbreaker. Autumn colors are also affected by the temperature that year, so keep your itinerary flexible. If you also want to see a truly spectacular autumn during the National Day holiday, this autumn-chasing route from Beijing all the way north is definitely worth saving.

01 Fangchenggang | Guangxi Leshan Ancient Fishing Village is my secret spot for watching the sea. While others flock to Beihai Silver Beach during the National Day holiday, here you only hear the sound of the tide lapping against the black pebble beach. After the tide recedes at 4 pm, you can find small crabs in the crevices of the rocks, and kids can squat and play for an hour. Dried shrimp are drying against the walls of the old houses in the village, and the wind carries their salty, fresh scent. ⚠️ The dirt road leading into the village is a bit bumpy, so cars with low chassis should drive slowly. The Fangchenggang coastal walkway is best viewed in the evening, when the sun is high in the sky after 6 pm, casting golden light on the sea. Find a roadside food stall, order some sandworm porridge and grilled oysters, and you'll be stuffed for about 40 yuan per person. No one will rush you to change tables; just sit and listen to the waves. 🚄 It takes about an hour by high-speed train from Nanning, saving half the budget compared to going to Sanya. 02 Shannan | Tibet The beauty of Yamdrok Lake doesn't rely on filters, but on luck and altitude. Lhasa city was crowded during the National Day holiday, so we drove two hours to get here. The lake was a vibrant blue, like spilled paint. ⚠️ Don't rush to stop at the first viewpoint; it's crowded and windy. Continue along the lake until you reach the vicinity of Dongla Township. There are almost no tourists there; yaks leisurely block the way, and the lake water displays three or four shades of blue under different lighting. At an altitude of 4400 meters, we were out of breath walking, so we took a couple of photos and then sat down to rest. Local Tibetans were selling homemade yogurt by the lake; it was so sour it made us wince, but adding a little sugar made it just right. On the way back, we stopped at the Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley viewpoint, where the evening light turned the sand dunes golden pink. ⏰ Arrive at the lake before 10 am for the best light, when the water is like a mirror. Don't join the crowds in the afternoon; the backlighting will result in grayish photos. 03 Benxi|Liaoning In autumn, Benxi is a hidden gem in Northeast China, a true palette of colors. The red leaves were perfect during the National Day holiday, but there were half the number of people as at Fragrant Hills. Benxi Water Cave is a karst underground river. You'll travel by boat among the stalactites. The temperature is consistently around 12 degrees Celsius, so remember to bring a jacket. ⏰ Enter before 9 AM to avoid tour groups. The cave is so quiet you can only hear the oars. Huanren Wunü Mountain is more suitable for hiking enthusiasts. The mountain isn't high, but the steps are steep. It takes about half an hour to reach the top, where you can overlook Huanlong Lake, which looks like an emerald embedded in the mountain. 🍜 After descending the mountain, head to the county town for a bowl of Xiaoshi mutton soup. The milky white broth with sesame flatbread is incredibly warming. Guanmenshan National Forest Park is the highlight. The maple leaves are layered with vibrant reds. Walking along the wooden boardwalk, every step is on fallen leaves. ⚠️ After 3 PM, the sunlight shines obliquely into the forest, making the reds most saturated. Don't rush off. Driving is the most convenient option; the drive from Benxi city to all the attractions takes about an hour. 04 Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan The temperature in Mangshi during the National Day holiday was around 25 degrees Celsius, and there were far fewer people than in Dali and Lijiang. The Meng Huan Grand Golden Pagoda, located atop Leiyairang Mountain on the outskirts of the city, is a landmark of Theravada Buddhism. After 6 PM, the tourists dispersed, and the pagoda glowed warmly in the sunset. Walking barefoot into the corridor, the wind chimes tinkled. Taking photos in Dai clothing was available; renting a set cost only 30 yuan, half the price of Xishuangbanna. ⏰ Climbing up an hour before sunset, the light changed from golden to orange-red, making the pagoda seem to be on fire. ⚠️ Shoes must be removed before entering the main hall; skirts must be below the knee. Free aprons are available for rent at the entrance. After descending the mountain, head to Best Food City and order Pao Lu Da with lemon Sa Pie—a tangy and spicy appetizer. 🌙 At night, the pagoda is illuminated, offering a completely different view. Lying on the lawn beneath the pagoda to watch the stars, it felt like having the place to yourself. If you don't want to brave the crowds in Xishuangbanna during the National Day holiday, come here instead. It's close by air and prices are reasonable. 05 Altay | Xinjiang Kanas during the National Day holiday is the peak of autumn colors in Northern Xinjiang. Golden birch trees reflected in the azure lake are comparable to Switzerland. But don't just focus on the Fish Viewing Platform. Arrive at the Moon Bay boardwalk before 8 am; the morning mist glides along the river, and there are almost no tourists. Keketuohai isn't a sea, but a canyon and the Ertis River. The birch forests are dazzlingly yellow in autumn, and Kazakh herders' yurts are scattered along the riverbank—you can go in and have a bowl of milk tea. ⚠️ The shuttle bus queues at the Kanas scenic area are long, so leaving early is key. The culture of the Altay grasslands is even more interesting. Stay overnight in a log cabin in Hemu Village and watch the smoke rise from the chimneys in the morning, with herds of horses appearing and disappearing in the mist. ⏰ The snow scenery of Northern Xinjiang is an unexpected bonus. You might encounter the first snow in late September or early October, with golden birch trees against snow-capped peaks—seeing two seasons in one day. If your budget allows, charter a car; four people splitting the cost will get you around 600 RMB per day, offering much more freedom than a group tour. 🍜 The grilled pike at Burqin Night Market is a must-try; the meat is firm, and it's best enjoyed with kvass to cut the richness. 06 Zhuhai|Guangdong Want to visit an amusement park during National Day but worried about the crowds? Zhuhai Chimelong is twice as comfortable as Guangzhou Chimelong. ⚠️ Buy tickets online in advance and head straight to the whale shark aquarium when it opens to get some great photos of the empty tanks. The afternoon shows are packed; just watch one at the dolphin show, and use the rest of the time for rides. Parents with kids should note that the restaurants inside the park are expensive and generally mediocre. Turn right after exiting the park to find a seafood street in Hengqin Town where you can catch and cook fresh seafood; mantis shrimp is only around 40 RMB per pound. 🍜 Take an evening stroll along Lovers' Road, walking from the Zhuhai Fisher Girl statue to Wild Fox Island. The sea breeze is refreshing, and the lights of Macau twinkle in the mist across the water. This road is best visited at dusk; the sky turns pinkish-purple at sunset, and the streetlights illuminate the area like stars strung together. 🚄 A taxi from Zhuhai Station to Chimelong takes about 40 minutes. A guesthouse in Hengqin costs around 200 RMB per night. If you want to avoid the crowds in the park, take an island hopping tour to Wai Lingding Island. The boat ticket is 120 RMB, and the seawater is much clearer than in the city. 07 Xilingol League | Inner Mongolia The Ulagai Grassland is the filming location for the movie *Wolf Totem*. During the National Day holiday, the grass turns golden, adding a touch of gentleness compared to the green carpet of summer. While it lacks the fame of Hulunbuir, it boasts vast, uninhabited grasslands and a free-spirited atmosphere. In the morning, ride horses deep into the grassland, guided by horsemen; it costs 80 RMB per hour, half the price of riding in the scenic area. ⏰ At dusk, climb the gentle slope to watch the sunset paint the grass honey-colored, and the Milky Way is clearly visible in the night. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is significant; wear short sleeves during the day and a down jacket at night. Don't overexert yourself. 🍜 Head to Bayinhushuo Town for some hand-pulled mutton. The mutton is boiled in plain water and dipped in chive blossom sauce—it has absolutely no gamey taste. You can stay with nomadic families, drink milk tea around the stove in the evening, and listen to the herders tell stories about wolves. This area is best explored by car; it's a three-hour drive from Xilinhot. The roads are in good condition, there's little traffic, and the scenery along the way is like a Windows desktop wallpaper. For those on a budget, consider carpooling. Local hostels cost around 80 yuan a night, and you might even meet fellow travelers. 08 Shennongjia Forest District | Hubei Shennongjia is a killer spot to avoid the crowds during the National Day holiday. It's famous, but sparsely populated. Tickets can be booked online in advance; around 200 yuan gets you two days of fun. Dajiu Lake is a must-see. The alpine wetlands are shrouded in morning mist. At 6:00 AM, the boardwalks are almost deserted, and the lake reflects the mountains, like stepping into a traditional Chinese ink painting. ⚠️ The earliest bus departs from the scenic area at 6:30 AM; if you want to photograph the morning mist, you'll have to get up early. The bizarre rocks and arrow bamboo of Banbiyan make you feel like you're in Iceland. The hiking trail takes about an hour, with a gentle slope, suitable for both the elderly and children. 🍜 Restaurants in Muyu Town mainly serve cured meat and wild vegetables. Order a plate of cured meat stir-fried with ferns and rice crust, and you'll be stuffed for about 50 yuan per person. ⏰ October is the peak season for Shennongjia, with its vibrant red and yellow leaves. Driving from Yichang takes three hours, with winding mountain roads; beginners should be cautious. Staying in Pingqian Ancient Town is cheaper than in Muyu, with a standard room for 150 yuan a night, and it's closer to Dajiu Lake. If you're looking for a cool and peaceful mountain retreat for National Day, Shennongjia won't disappoint. This National Day, instead of staring at the backs of heads at popular tourist spots, why not choose a less crowded place to slow down? I've thoroughly researched these eight destinations for you, offering affordable experiences without compromising quality. Which one are you planning to choose? Let's discuss in the comments, and I'll help you dig deeper into the travel guide. 01 Fangchenggang | Guangxi Leshan Ancient Fishing Village is my secret spot for watching the sea. While others flock to Beihai Silver Beach during the National Day holiday, here you only hear the sound of the tide lapping against the black pebble beach. After the tide recedes at 4 pm, you can find small crabs in the crevices of the rocks, and kids can squat and play for an hour. Dried shrimp are drying against the walls of the old houses in the village, and the wind carries their salty, fresh scent. ⚠️ The dirt road leading into the village is a bit bumpy, so cars with low chassis should drive slowly. The Fangchenggang coastal walkway is best viewed in the evening, when the sun is high in the sky after 6 pm, casting golden light on the sea. Find a roadside food stall, order some sandworm porridge and grilled oysters, and you'll be stuffed for about 40 yuan per person. No one will rush you to change tables; just sit and listen to the waves. 🚄 It takes about an hour by high-speed train from Nanning, saving half the budget compared to going to Sanya. 02 Shannan | Tibet The beauty of Yamdrok Lake doesn't rely on filters, but on luck and altitude. Lhasa city was crowded during the National Day holiday, so we drove two hours to get here. The lake was a vibrant blue, like spilled paint. ⚠️ Don't rush to stop at the first viewpoint; it's crowded and windy. Continue along the lake until you reach the vicinity of Dongla Township. There are almost no tourists there; yaks leisurely block the way, and the lake water displays three or four shades of blue under different lighting. At an altitude of 4400 meters, we were out of breath walking, so we took a couple of photos and then sat down to rest. Local Tibetans were selling homemade yogurt by the lake; it was so sour it made us wince, but adding a little sugar made it just right. On the way back, we stopped at the Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley viewpoint, where the evening light turned the sand dunes golden pink. ⏰ Arrive at the lake before 10 am for the best light, when the water is like a mirror. Don't join the crowds in the afternoon; the backlighting will result in grayish photos. 03 Benxi|Liaoning In autumn, Benxi is a hidden gem in Northeast China, a true palette of colors. The red leaves were perfect during the National Day holiday, but there were half the number of people as at Fragrant Hills. Benxi Water Cave is a karst underground river. You'll travel by boat among the stalactites. The temperature is consistently around 12 degrees Celsius, so remember to bring a jacket. ⏰ Enter before 9 AM to avoid tour groups. The cave is so quiet you can only hear the oars. Huanren Wunü Mountain is more suitable for hiking enthusiasts. The mountain isn't high, but the steps are steep. It takes about half an hour to reach the top, where you can overlook Huanlong Lake, which looks like an emerald embedded in the mountain. 🍜 After descending the mountain, head to the county town for a bowl of Xiaoshi mutton soup. The milky white broth with sesame flatbread is incredibly warming. Guanmenshan National Forest Park is the highlight. The maple leaves are layered with vibrant reds. Walking along the wooden boardwalk, every step is on fallen leaves. ⚠️ After 3 PM, the sunlight shines obliquely into the forest, making the reds most saturated. Don't rush off. Driving is the most convenient option; the drive from Benxi city to all the attractions takes about an hour. 04 Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan The temperature in Mangshi during the National Day holiday was around 25 degrees Celsius, and there were far fewer people than in Dali and Lijiang. The Meng Huan Grand Golden Pagoda, located atop Leiyairang Mountain on the outskirts of the city, is a landmark of Theravada Buddhism. After 6 PM, the tourists dispersed, and the pagoda glowed warmly in the sunset. Walking barefoot into the corridor, the wind chimes tinkled. Taking photos in Dai clothing was available; renting a set cost only 30 yuan, half the price of Xishuangbanna. ⏰ Climbing up an hour before sunset, the light changed from golden to orange-red, making the pagoda seem to be on fire. ⚠️ Shoes must be removed before entering the main hall; skirts must be below the knee. Free aprons are available for rent at the entrance. After descending the mountain, head to Best Food City and order Pao Lu Da with lemon Sa Pie—a tangy and spicy appetizer. 🌙 At night, the pagoda is illuminated, offering a completely different view. Lying on the lawn beneath the pagoda to watch the stars, it felt like having the place to yourself. If you don't want to brave the crowds in Xishuangbanna during the National Day holiday, come here instead. It's close by air and prices are reasonable. 05 Altay | Xinjiang Kanas during the National Day holiday is the peak of autumn colors in Northern Xinjiang. Golden birch trees reflected in the azure lake are comparable to Switzerland. But don't just focus on the Fish Viewing Platform. Arrive at the Moon Bay boardwalk before 8 am; the morning mist glides along the river, and there are almost no tourists. Keketuohai isn't a sea, but a canyon and the Ertis River. The birch forests are dazzlingly yellow in autumn, and Kazakh herders' yurts are scattered along the riverbank—you can go in and have a bowl of milk tea. ⚠️ The shuttle bus queues at the Kanas scenic area are long, so leaving early is key. The culture of the Altay grasslands is even more interesting. Stay overnight in a log cabin in Hemu Village and watch the smoke rise from the chimneys in the morning, with herds of horses appearing and disappearing in the mist. ⏰ The snow scenery of Northern Xinjiang is an unexpected bonus. You might encounter the first snow in late September or early October, with golden birch trees against snow-capped peaks—seeing two seasons in one day. If your budget allows, charter a car; four people splitting the cost will get you around 600 RMB per day, offering much more freedom than a group tour. 🍜 The grilled pike at Burqin Night Market is a must-try; the meat is firm, and it's best enjoyed with kvass to cut the richness. 06 Zhuhai|Guangdong Want to visit an amusement park during National Day but worried about the crowds? Zhuhai Chimelong is twice as comfortable as Guangzhou Chimelong. ⚠️ Buy tickets online in advance and head straight to the whale shark aquarium when it opens to get some great photos of the empty tanks. The afternoon shows are packed; just watch one at the dolphin show, and use the rest of the time for rides. Parents with kids should note that the restaurants inside the park are expensive and generally mediocre. Turn right after exiting the park to find a seafood street in Hengqin Town where you can catch and cook fresh seafood; mantis shrimp is only around 40 RMB per pound. 🍜 Take an evening stroll along Lovers' Road, walking from the Zhuhai Fisher Girl statue to Wild Fox Island. The sea breeze is refreshing, and the lights of Macau twinkle in the mist across the water. This road is best visited at dusk; the sky turns pinkish-purple at sunset, and the streetlights illuminate the area like stars strung together. 🚄 A taxi from Zhuhai Station to Chimelong takes about 40 minutes. A guesthouse in Hengqin costs around 200 RMB per night. If you want to avoid the crowds in the park, take an island hopping tour to Wai Lingding Island. The boat ticket is 120 RMB, and the seawater is much clearer than in the city. 07 Xilingol League | Inner Mongolia The Ulagai Grassland is the filming location for the movie *Wolf Totem*. During the National Day holiday, the grass turns golden, adding a touch of gentleness compared to the green carpet of summer. While it lacks the fame of Hulunbuir, it boasts vast, uninhabited grasslands and a free-spirited atmosphere. In the morning, ride horses deep into the grassland, guided by horsemen; it costs 80 RMB per hour, half the price of riding in the scenic area. ⏰ At dusk, climb the gentle slope to watch the sunset paint the grass honey-colored, and the Milky Way is clearly visible in the night. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is significant; wear short sleeves during the day and a down jacket at night. Don't overexert yourself. 🍜 Head to Bayinhushuo Town for some hand-pulled mutton. The mutton is boiled in plain water and dipped in chive blossom sauce—it has absolutely no gamey taste. You can stay with nomadic families, drink milk tea around the stove in the evening, and listen to the herders tell stories about wolves. This area is best explored by car; it's a three-hour drive from Xilinhot. The roads are in good condition, there's little traffic, and the scenery along the way is like a Windows desktop wallpaper. For those on a budget, consider carpooling. Local hostels cost around 80 yuan a night, and you might even meet fellow travelers. 08 Shennongjia Forest District | Hubei Shennongjia is a killer spot to avoid the crowds during the National Day holiday. It's famous, but sparsely populated. Tickets can be booked online in advance; around 200 yuan gets you two days of fun. Dajiu Lake is a must-see. The alpine wetlands are shrouded in morning mist. At 6:00 AM, the boardwalks are almost deserted, and the lake reflects the mountains, like stepping into a traditional Chinese ink painting. ⚠️ The earliest bus departs from the scenic area at 6:30 AM; if you want to photograph the morning mist, you'll have to get up early. The bizarre rocks and arrow bamboo of Banbiyan make you feel like you're in Iceland. The hiking trail takes about an hour, with a gentle slope, suitable for both the elderly and children. 🍜 Restaurants in Muyu Town mainly serve cured meat and wild vegetables. Order a plate of cured meat stir-fried with ferns and rice crust, and you'll be stuffed for about 50 yuan per person. ⏰ October is the peak season for Shennongjia, with its vibrant red and yellow leaves. Driving from Yichang takes three hours, with winding mountain roads; beginners should be cautious. Staying in Pingqian Ancient Town is cheaper than in Muyu, with a standard room for 150 yuan a night, and it's closer to Dajiu Lake. If you're looking for a cool and peaceful mountain retreat for National Day, Shennongjia won't disappoint. This National Day, instead of staring at the backs of heads at popular tourist spots, why not choose a less crowded place to slow down? I've thoroughly researched these eight destinations for you, offering affordable experiences without compromising quality. Which one are you planning to choose? Let's discuss in the comments, and I'll help you dig deeper into the travel guide.

Xilingol is a place to let the grassland set the pace. Its beauty lies not just in its "vastness," but also in the layers of wind-swept grass waves, winding rivers, scattered cattle and sheep, and rolling distant mountains. If it's your first time here, I suggest not packing your itinerary too full. Leave some space for the weather and serendipitous encounters. You can start with the open grassland landscapes, finding a highland or valley with a good view to watch the morning mist, cloud shadows, and sunset slowly shift. Landforms like Pingdingshan are suitable for hiking and sightseeing. The focus isn't on rushing, but on observing the changing lines of rocks, meadows, and the distance as you walk. Ulagai Grassland is perfect for slowing down, exploring different scenes along rivers, wetlands, and pastures. Enjoy the clarity of the grassland in the morning, avoid the midday sun, and head out in the afternoon to photograph cattle, sheep, reflections, and waves of grass. Save the evening for the sunset. This is usually much more comfortable than rushing from one spot to the next. For local experiences, you can choose yurts, milk tea, dairy products, and scenes of nomadic life. Whether it's horseback riding, visiting pastures, or participating in simple grassland activities, I suggest choosing based on your energy and interests—you don't need to do everything. The moments truly worth holding onto are often just sitting on the grass, zoning out, listening to the wind, and chatting. For practical arrangements, keep in mind that the temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is significant, and wind conditions change frequently, so it's worth bringing a jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Prioritize footwear suitable for gravel and grass, bring a power bank for your phone, and don't rely solely on finding navigation and supplies on the fly. To save money, prioritize public scenic spots, combine adjacent areas logically, and check what's included in your dining and accommodation in advance. Distances on the grassland can easily be more spread out than you imagine; it's better to visit one fewer spot than to miss the sunset or spend most of your time on the road just to stick to an itinerary. The best way to travel in Xilingol is to enjoy the scenery during the day, watch the sky in the evening, and sit around chatting at night. Use popular attractions as your framework, but leave yourself the freedom to stop whenever you like—that's how you can truly feel the vastness and sense of relaxation of the grassland✨

01 Changde | Hunan In September in Changde, the heat has mostly faded and Taohuayuan is perfect for a slow walk. Don’t rush out as soon as you enter; follow Qin Creek deeper in and the osmanthus scent on both banks will lead the way. The shade is thick, dappled light falls through, and the air smells of damp moss. 🍜 For lunch, don’t settle for something inside the scenic area. Exit and go to a nearby farmhouse restaurant for a bowl of Taoyuan chicken—the broth is fresh and the meat tender. Eat it with the local mugwort pancake for a homely meal. In the afternoon, return to the park for the live staging of “Peach Blossom Spring.” Book tickets in advance; the evening shows are crowded. ⚠️ There are many steps around Qin Valley. If you’re with elders or kids, stick to the main route and avoid forcing a climb. Expect to spend three to four hours exploring the whole area, so comfortable shoes matter more than anything. Autumn here isn’t too crowded, perfect for lingering the whole day. 02 Zibo | Shandong Don’t just focus on the barbecue stalls. Zhoucun ancient market is Zibo’s real treasure. On a September morning, the stone slabs are still cool from night and the sesame aroma from the baked goods wafts through the air. The old buildings are well preserved—walk from the main street to Silk Market Street, then turn into Silver Market Street, and you’ll feel the late Qing to early Republican era vibe. 📍 Be sure to visit the long‑established Ruifuxiang to see the silk shop where the business began. Then slip into a side alley and find a shop selling freshly baked Zhoucun sesame flatbread—so thin and crispy it breaks at a touch; eat it hot for the best flavor. ⚠️ The Old Dye Works in the market was a filming location for the TV series Da Ran Fang, but it stops admitting visitors at 4:30 PM, so don’t go right before closing. Two hours is enough to stroll the whole street; afterward, take a taxi to Haidai Tower to see the Zhongshuge bookstore—its evening lights are very photogenic. 03 Jiaxing | Zhejiang Wuzhen or Xitang in September? My answer: visit both, split them between day and night. Reserve the daytime for Wuzhen West. The management is polished, the waterways are clean, and hand‑dyed indigo printed fabric from the natural dye workshops hangs in the sun like blue waves when the breeze blows. If you get tired, take a traditional oar boat; the boatwoman hums local tunes as you pass under stone bridges and time suddenly slows down. 🌙 Move on to Xitang at dusk and be sure to stay until it’s dark. A string of red lanterns under the misty covered corridor reflects in the water and looks ten times better at night. Find a riverside eatery, order a plate of salt‑and‑pepper pumpkin and a simply steamed whitefish, and sit by the window to watch the boats go by. ⚠️ Tickets for the two towns are sold separately. West Scenic Area night tickets are cheaper than daytime ones, but many small attractions close at night—choose based on what you want to see. For lodging, stay inside Xitang’s scenic area so you can open your window at dawn and see the quietest side of the town. 04 Leshan | Sichuan In Leshan, both the mountain and the Buddha are so famous it’s hard to choose where to start. My suggestion: Mount Emei in the morning and the Leshan Giant Buddha in the afternoon. It’s a tight day but doable. 🌄 Head up at 6:00 AM to catch the sunrise before the sea of clouds over the Golden Summit disperses. In September on Mount Emei, autumn is just reaching the treetops and the monkeys aren’t too aggressive yet, but don’t carry plastic bags—they will snatch them. Taking the cableway up and down plus visiting the summit takes about four hours; bring a jacket, as it’s much windier and noticeably colder at the top. In the afternoon at the Leshan Giant Buddha, skip the long queue to walk the winding plank road down to the Buddha’s feet—it’s crowded and rough on the legs. A smarter route is to enter through the north gate, visit Lingyun Temple first, then circle to the side of the Buddha’s head for the best angle that captures the Buddha and the confluence with the Minjiang River. 🍜 After descending, don’t rush off—head to Zhanggongqiao food street for a bowl of qiaojiao beef. The broth is incredibly savory; paired with blood curd and spicy crispy intestines, the meal completes the trip. 05 Haidong | Qinghai Autumn comes early in Haidong. By late September the valleys around Huzhu are already turning yellow. Spend half a day at the Tu homeland park, where Tu aunties will serve you qingke barley wine and perform the Anzhao dance. The park’s wheel attraction is a highlight—it looks daring, but it spins steadily, so give it a try. From the park, drive about 50 km north to Youning Temple. The mountain road is twisty, but the autumn scenery along the way is worth every blink. Youning is a Tibetan Buddhist temple much quieter than Ta’er Monastery, with almost no tourists—only the flutter of prayer flags and the creak of prayer wheels. ⚠️ The altitude is close to 3,000 m, so don’t move too fast or you’ll get breathless. There are no restaurants at the temple—bring snacks and water. In the evening back in Huzhu county, try the Tu specialty gou jiao niao pancake. The name is odd, but pancakes fried in rapeseed oil are fragrant and chewy, and they go beautifully with hand‑pulled lamb. 06 Handan | Hebei Guangfu Ancient City and Nuwa Palace have completely different vibes, but both are in Handan and perfect to visit in September. Guangfu Ancient City is ideal in the morning—the city wall is over 4 km around, and renting a bike to circle it is the most pleasant way to see it. The city is a rare northern “water city,” surrounded by water where egrets rise and fall among the reeds. 🍜 Have a noon meal in the ancient city and try Yongnian crispy fish—the bones are cooked soft enough to chew for calcium. In the afternoon drive to Shexian to visit Nuwa Palace, about an hour and a half away. This ancient complex dedicated to the goddess Nuwa clings to a cliff and is connected by iron chains—thrilling to look at from a distance. ⚠️ The steps at Nuwa Palace are extremely steep. If you’re prone to fear of heights, don’t look down. If your stamina is average, stopping at the repair‑the‑sky plaza halfway up is enough—no need to climb to the top. On the way down in the evening, stop in Shexian town for a bowl of minjie noodles—made from coarse grains and topped with savory sauce, simple but memorable. 07 Weinan | Shaanxi Climbing Mount Huashan in September is both a test of endurance and a feast for the eyes. Don’t overestimate yourself and hike from Yuquan Monastery unless you’re very fit—the six‑hour “clever Huashan route” is not for everyone. The least tiring way is to take the West Peak cableway up and the North Peak cableway down, linking West, South, and East peaks in a day. 🌄 Walk at least a section of the cliffside plank road on West Peak—the abyss underfoot is terrifying, and the wind pouring up from the valley will make your legs wobble while your view opens outrageously wide. South Peak is the highest point of Huashan; the “Huashan Sword Debate” stele is there. Expect lines for photos, but it’s worth the wait. If you dare try the East Peak’s vertical descent known as Yaozi Fan Shen, the vertical drop is ten times more thrilling than a roller coaster. 📍 After descending, don’t leave right away—head to Huayin county at the foot of the mountain for a bowl of da‑dao mian (big‑knife noodles). The noodles are as wide as a belt and served with oil‑splashed chili; one bite will wipe away most of the climbing fatigue. One note: the temperature difference at the summit in September is large between day and night—bring a lightweight down jacket, don’t just rely on a shell jacket. 08 Xilingol League | Inner Mongolia By late September the Wulagai grassland has shed its summer green and turned golden. Visit now and most tourists are gone; between the sky and earth it’s just you and herds of cattle and sheep, the wind smelling of grass seeds—desolate and vast. Self‑driving is the best way to explore. Start from Bayin Hushuo town and follow the Wulagai River north. 🚄 There are no direct flights; most travelers fly to Xilinhot and then rent a car for a three‑hour drive. The scenery along the road rivals the attractions themselves, and you can pull over anytime for epic shots. Don’t miss the sunset at Wulagai Lake—its surface turns orange‑red and the distant hills look like an ink wash painting. ⚠️ Accommodation on the grassland is limited. Town hotels are more reliable than yurts—yurts can get uncomfortably cold at night. By late September some herders are already moving camp; if you meet a convoy driving livestock, slow down and don’t honk to avoid spooking the animals. For a deeper experience, hire a local guide to take you into Wild Wolf Valley deep in the grassland—far more interesting than viewing from fenced tourist sites. Golden autumn is short—don’t miss the winds of September and October. Pick a destination near you, buy a ticket, and go—the mountains and rivers will write the story for you. travel town trips destinations trip travel

01 Nanchong | Sichuan Step on the gas and head to the Jialing River; that's when I understood why Langzhong Ancient City is perfect for a road trip. 🚄 There are plenty of car rental spots at Nanchong North Station, but they often have lines in the afternoon during peak season, so I recommend booking your car in advance via the app. It's a 1.5-hour drive from the city center via the Lanzhou-Haikou Expressway to Langzhong, and the road conditions are better than you'd expect. ⏰ It's most comfortable to enter the ancient city after 4:00 PM. The tour groups have left, the bluestone roads are still warm from the sun, and Bixiang Street, west of Zhongtian Tower, is almost empty. 📍 Find the banyan tree in front of "Zhangjia Courtyard." Under its shade, you can photograph the spire of Guanghua Tower and the vinegar cloths drying in the sun. 🍜 Don't eat dinner on the main street. Pass Zhongtian Tower, turn right onto Wumiao Street, and look for the beef noodle shop with only six tables. The broth has a medicinal herb flavor, and a small bowl is CNY 12. ⚠️ Most guesthouses inside the ancient city don't have parking. Ask clearly before booking if they provide a shuttle from the parking lot outside the city. 02 Yichun | Jiangxi For Mingyue Mountain, driving is much less of a hassle than taking the high-speed train. 🚄 It takes about 40 mins by taxi from Yichun Station to the scenic area, but shuttle buses are infrequent, and if you miss one, you'll wait 30 mins for the next. If you drive yourself, just navigate to "Mingyue Mountain Tourist Center." The parking lot is large and costs CNY 10 per day. ⏰ Take the cable car up the mountain before 8:00 AM. If you're late, the line can wrap around three times—don't ask me how I know. For the boardwalk around Moon Lake at the summit, walk counter-clockwise; there are half as many people. When the clouds roll in beneath your feet, you'll feel that waking up early was worth it. 📍 Don't rush off after coming down the mountain; there are free foot-soaking pools by the ancient well in Wentang Town. 🍜 Try the selenium-rich tofu pudding in town for CNY 3 a bowl, and eat it with fried dough sticks. ⚠️ The cable car stops running at 4:30 PM. If you miss it, you'll have to walk down. If you have bad knees, don't risk it. 03 Xilingol | Inner Mongolia Ulagai Grassland is perfect for those who "don't want to plan, just want to drive." Starting from Xilinhot city center, take the S101. It's a 3-hour straight road with waves of grass on both sides. 🚄 If you don't have a car, there are rental agencies near Xilinhot Railway Station, but cell signal on the grassland is spotty, so download offline maps in advance. ⏰ Mid-July to mid-August is the golden period. The grass is at its deepest, wildflowers are most abundant, and after 9:00 AM, the sunlight turns the tips of the grass golden. 📍 Navigate to the east bank of "Ulagai Lake." There's an unfenced slope where you can drive your car right to the lakeside, which is more photogenic than the scenic viewing platforms. 🍜 Stop if you come across a herdsman's yogurt stand on the road. It's CNY 5 a bowl, topped with a layer of milk skin. ⚠️ Don't drive on the grassland randomly; the herdsmen will actually chase you on horseback. For accommodation, either return to Bayinhushuo Town or book a starry-sky yurt in advance. You'll basically find no vacancies if you look last minute. 04 Zhangye | Gansu Zhangye's attractions are scattered in a unique way; without a car, you're essentially legless. 🚄 Get off at Zhangye West Station; the car rental counters are on your left as you exit. Book 3 days in advance during peak season. Colorful Danxia, Giant Buddha Temple, Liqian Ancient City, and Mati Temple—these 4 spots make for a perfect 1-day itinerary. ⏰ For Colorful Danxia, aim for the 5:30 PM slot. The light hits the rock layers at an angle, making the colors really pop. 📍 Viewing Platform 4 is the highest, but Platform 2 has fewer people, making it cleaner for portraits. ⚠️ Don't trust anyone at the entrance who says they can "take you through a shortcut to avoid the ticket." It takes decades for the Danxia landform to recover from a single footprint. 🍜 Try the cuoyu noodles (rubbed fish noodles) in Ganzhou Alley in the city center; a small portion is enough. The Giant Buddha Temple is in the city, and admission stops at 4:00 PM. See the reclining Buddha, which is over 30 meters long—its ears are taller than a person. Mati Temple is in the Sunan direction; the mountain roads are winding, so new drivers should take it slow. Liqian Ancient City is more cultural; you can skip it if you're not interested in history. 05 Yangjiang | Guangdong Dajiao Bay on Hailing Island is an old friend in the Guangdong self-driving circle. 🚄 It's about an hour from Yangjiang Station to Hailing Island, but the island's buses run every 30 mins, so driving is more convenient. On the seawall road entering the island, roll down your windows and let the salty air rush in. ⏰ Go to Dajiao Bay Beach at 7:00 AM. The sand is fine, there are few people, and the seawater hasn't been heated up by the sun yet. 📍 On the reef side of the Maritime Silk Road Tourist Area, you can find small crabs during low tide. ⚠️ Seafood stalls on the island often overcharge tourists. Ask for the unit price clearly before ordering, or just go to the Zhapo Farmers' Market to buy seafood and have it cooked elsewhere. 🍜 There are places on the second floor of the market that cook for you; the processing fee for a pound of boiled shrimp is CNY 15. For accommodation, there are many apartments near Poly Silver Beach where you can cook your own meals. If you have children, note that while the waves at Dajiao Bay aren't big, the tide rises quickly in the afternoon, so don't let the kids run too far. 06 Shiyan | Hubei Wudang Mountain—driving yourself saves you the most tiring part of the transfer. 🚄 It's about 40 mins from Shiyan East Station to the Wudang Mountain scenic area, but it's another 20 km from the scenic area gate to the cable car station. If you drive, park directly in the "Tourist Center" underground garage for CNY 15 a day. ⏰ Either catch the first bus into the mountain at 7:00 AM or go after 2:00 PM. The time in between is full of tour groups, and the line for the Golden Summit can stretch all the way to Zhongtian Gate. 📍 The "Dragon Head Incense" at Nanyan Palace is a test of your nerve against the cliff; if you're afraid of heights, hold onto the wall as you walk. ⚠️ Bottled water on the mountain is CNY 8 a bottle, so carry 2 up yourself. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to Wudang Mountain Town for "Sanhe Soup." Sweet potato noodles, beef, and dumplings are cooked in one pot; a small bowl is CNY 15. Zixiao Palace is perfect for a slow stroll; the red walls and ancient cypresses don't need filters for photos. If you're with elderly people, I recommend taking the cable car both ways; the steps on the Mingshen Road hiking trail are steep and hard on the knees. 07 Tongren | Guizhou Fanjingshan—driving is more flexible than taking the high-speed train. 🚄 It's about an hour from Tongren Station to Jiangkou County, but it's another 30 mins from Jiangkou to the mountain gate. If you drive, navigate directly to "Fanjingshan Tourist Center." Parking is tight, so arrive before 8:00 AM to get a spot. ⏰ You must book the earliest slot to enter the mountain. The Red Cloud Golden Summit has a visitor limit, and if you're late, you'll wait for 3 hours. 📍 Walk to the right of Mushroom Stone; there's a section of cliff edge without railings where the angle for viewing the sea of clouds is better than at the viewing platform. ⚠️ The temperature at the summit is 10 degrees lower than at the base, so bring a light down jacket even in summer. Buy your cable car ticket and admission ticket separately; don't miss either. 🍜 Try the Jiangkou rice tofu at the base for CNY 5 a bowl; it's sour and spicy. Yamu Valley is nearby, and the water is so clear you can see the bottom—perfect for soaking your feet after coming down the mountain. If you have children, note that the iron chain climb at the Golden Summit has height requirements; small children can't make it up. If the weather is bad, just cancel your ticket; you won't see anything up there. 08 Panjin | Liaoning Red Beach Scenic Corridor—driving is the only right way to experience it. 🚄 It's about an hour from Panjin Station to Red Beach, but the corridor is 18 km long. Without a car, you have to take the shuttle bus, and waiting for it is cold. Drive along the corridor slowly and stop whenever you see a viewing platform. ⏰ It's reddest from late September to mid-October. The seepweed is at its most vibrant, and after 3:00 PM, the light is warm, making the reflection on the sea look like a layer of rust. 📍 At the "Taxia Manbu" (Walking on Clouds) spot in the middle of the corridor, the wooden boardwalk extends into the mudflats, allowing you to photograph the boundary between the grass and the sea. ⚠️ Don't step onto the mudflats to walk on the grass; one step and the grass dies, and the fines are no joke. 🍜 Go back to the Xinglongtai district in the city to eat Panjin river crabs. In September, the female crabs are full of roe; they are sold by the piece, so ask for the price before they scoop them up. Staying in the city is half the price of staying near the scenic area, and it's only a 40-min drive away. Bring a telephoto lens, and don't get too close when photographing red-crowned cranes; the reserve has patrols. Of these 8 places, I personally recommend visiting Zhangye and Panjin in the autumn. One is for seeing the mountains "on fire," and the other is for seeing the grass turn deep red. Pick one and head out this weekend.

A hidden gem in Xilinhot, Beizi Temple is a must-add to your itinerary! 📸 The plaque inscribed by Emperor Qianlong himself, featuring 5 scripts, still hangs high today, steeped in history 🔥 📍**Beizi Temple** Address: 100 meters northwest of the intersection of Beizi Temple Street and Erden Road, Baoligen Subdistrict, Xilinhot City, Xilin Gol League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Opening hours: Open daily, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM) The stone lions and ancient architecture at the entrance create an incredible atmosphere. When the sunlight hits during the day, your photos come with a built-in filter! 👀 📍**Erden Obo Park** Address: Intersection of Beizi Temple Street and Erden Road, Xilinhot City, Xilin Gol League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Opening hours: Open daily, year-round After visiting the temple, just take a stroll over. The Obo at sunset is a perfect combination~🌇 📷Photo spots: ➡️Next to the stone lions in front of the temple, shoot from a low angle to frame the ancient architecture—it looks grand! ➡️Directly under the plaque, use a wide-angle lens to capture the text details and historical feel~ ➡️From the high point of Obo Park, overlook the entire Xilinhot—effortless, stunning shots! 💡Tips: Remember to wear light-colored or ethnic-style clothing to contrast with the red walls and green tiles for better photos~ Sun protection! Bring a hat and sunglasses; the prairie sun is no joke ☀️

Avoid the crowds! These 8️⃣ off-the-beaten-path cities hide the most authentic China 01 Yancheng|Jiangsu Want to see wild Père David's deer? You don't need to fly to Kenya. The China Père David's Deer Park in Dafeng, Yancheng, is the most authentic wildlife park I've ever seen. 🚄 It takes about an hour by taxi from Yancheng Station. I recommend arriving early, as the deer are most active in the morning. Don't rush to take the electric vehicles upon entering. Walk along the wooden boardwalk in the pedestrian area; you can see the deer running on the mudflats, their hooves splashing water—a scene more spectacular than any fenced zoo. There's a high observation tower in the park; 📍 climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of the entire wetland. It can be windy, so remember to hold your hat tight. ⚠️ After 2 PM, the deer mostly hide in the shade and sleep. To capture the spectacular sight of "thousands of deer galloping," be sure to enter the park before 10 AM. Tickets are just over 100 yuan, which is very reasonable compared to similar attractions. Families with children can rent an audio guide; kids are captivated by the story of the Deer King's Conquest. 02 Ma'anshan | Anhui Many locals in Anhui may not have visited Caishiji, but it truly is an underrated gem along the Yangtze River. I consider it a "mini-Nanjing" alternative—it lacks the crowds of Confucius Temple but offers equally magnificent river views. 📍 Taibai Tower is the core attraction. Climbing the tower to watch the Yangtze River bend and cargo ships slowly pass by evokes a sense of vastness and tranquility that is incredibly soothing. I recommend entering from the North Gate and walking along the riverside boardwalk towards Sanyuan Cave. The path is lined with cliff carvings, and you can relax on the riverside benches when you get tired. ⏰ After 4:30 PM, the tourists disperse, and the sunlight casts a slant on the Caishiji cliffs, perfect for silhouette photography. 🍜 Don't rush off after leaving. The Caishiji dried tofu sold outside the South Gate is a local favorite, costing only five yuan a pack—half the price inside the scenic area. Three hours is enough to leisurely explore the entire area, no need to get up early or stay out late, perfect for a weekend getaway. 03 Xilin Gol League | Inner Mongolia If your image of grasslands is still limited to "wind blowing through the grass revealing cattle and sheep," then Ulagai will overturn your perception—it's more like a forgotten green ocean. I drove from Bayinhushuo Town, and there were almost no other cars along the way, only the shadows of clouds moving across the grassy slopes. Compared to the mature commercialization of Hulunbuir, Ulagai retains a more rugged authenticity. 📍 The bend in the Ulagai River deep in the birch forest is a local's secret picnic spot; the river water is so clear you can see the patterns on the stones. ⚠️ Don't trust the "shortcuts" on your navigation system; after rain, the dirt roads can get your car stuck. Stick to the paved roads. ⏰ The sunsets on the grasslands are long; it's still light at 8 PM. Find a high spot to watch the sunset, where light and shadow dance on the undulating grass. At that moment, you'll feel that any journey was worthwhile. This area is more suitable for experienced drivers. Beginners are advised to hire a local driver, as there's no cell phone signal deep in the grasslands, so don't risk it. 04 Wenzhou|Zhejiang Yandang Mountain is quite famous, but I want to emphasize: don't just go for Dalongqiu Waterfall; Lingfeng is the real treasure. 📍 The silhouette of the "Clasping Hands Peak" in Lingfeng Scenic Area at dusk is even more breathtaking than during the day. The mountain resembles two clasped hands in the twilight. I recommend entering Lingfeng after 3 PM, first visiting Guanyin Cave, then circling around to Beidou Cave. The light filtering through the rock crevices and hitting the stone steps creates a sense of mystery. The second day is dedicated to Liu Bowen's hometown, about a two-hour drive from Yandang Mountain. The area around Chengyibo Temple in Nantian Town is very quiet, with ancient camphor trees providing ample shade, perfect for a leisurely stroll. ⏰ If time is limited, just visit Lingfeng at night – Yandang Mountain's night view is renowned for its wonders; the rocks transform into various silhouettes under the moonlight, telling countless stories, and the guide's explanations are ten times more vivid than during the day. ⚠️ Prices within the scenic area are relatively high, so it's recommended to bring your own water. The farmhouses at the foot of the mountain are more affordable than inside the scenic area. 05 Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai The name "Kekexili" alone evokes the breath of the wilderness. I traveled the section from Golmud to Yushu. 📍 Near the Budongquan Nature Reserve, you can see Tibetan antelopes grazing by the roadside. They aren't afraid of cars; instead, they curiously look up at you. This area isn't suitable for travelers in a rush; it's common to see three different weather conditions in a single day – clear skies in the morning, hail pelting your car windows in the afternoon. ⚠️ Never leave the road to chase animals. What looks close can actually be dozens of kilometers away, and you'll likely disturb them. The core area of ​​the Sanjiangyuan National Park is closed, but the surrounding Qumalai Grassland is breathtaking enough. 📍 The riverbank under the Tongtianhe Bridge is covered in blooming Gesang flowers in summer, and Tibetan grandmothers offer incense and prayers by the river; the tranquility is so profound that you dare not speak loudly. Those with average physical fitness are advised to bring oxygen cylinders, as the altitude of over 4,000 meters is no joke. This place is more suitable for travelers with reverence, not for those just looking for photos. 06 Ganzhou|Jiangxi Ganzhou has recently become my favorite place, especially Shicheng, which is completely untouched by commercialization. 📍 The Danxia landform of Tongtianzhai in Shicheng is wilder than Longhushan. The red cliffs are vibrant after the rain, as if washed clean. At the foot of the mountain, the ancient village of Bagua'nao still retains old houses from the Qing Dynasty. I spent a whole day in Shicheng, climbing Tongtianzhai in the morning and sitting in front of the ancestral hall in the ancient village watching the elderly play chess in the afternoon; time seemed to slow down. The next day, I went to Sanbaishan, the source of the Dongjiang River, where the water was unbelievably clear. ⏰ At 6 AM on a summer morning, the Three Hundred Mountains are shrouded in mist, the lake surface is like a mirror, and every snapshot looks like an ink painting. 🍜 Ganzhou cuisine is on the spicy side. I recommend the sweet potato starch dumplings in Shicheng. The skin is translucent, and biting into it releases a burst of flavorful soup. A bowl costs only three yuan, and I ate two bowls! 🚄 There's a direct high-speed train from Ganzhou West Station, making it very convenient from Guangdong. A two-day weekend is just right for a trip. 07 Xinyang|Henan I'd vote for Xinyang as the most underrated summer retreat in Henan. Jigong Mountain is a true "natural air-conditioned room"—you'll need a blanket at night in the summer. 📍 Baoxiao Peak is an excellent spot to watch the sunrise. Climbing up at 4:30 AM and witnessing the surging sea of ​​clouds makes the early start worthwhile. The cluster of international buildings on the mountain is fascinating; over a hundred-year-old villas are scattered among the trees, their red tiles and white walls against the mist, creating the feeling of stepping into a European town. ⏰ After 6 PM, most tourists have left, and the entire mountain is so quiet that only the wind and birdsong can be heard. A walk along the Changsheng Valley trail is filled with the scent of pine needles. ⚠️ Restaurants on the mountain are relatively expensive and mediocre. It's recommended to eat at the foot of the mountain on South Street before heading up. I recommend Xinyang stew with rice – it's heartwarming and comforting. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, you can take the scenic shuttle bus to the halfway point and then walk, saving a lot of energy. Autumn is even more beautiful; the mountainsides ablaze with red leaves against the backdrop of old villas offer a different kind of charm. 08 Jiayuguan | Gansu Many people use Jiayuguan as a transit point for Dunhuang, but I advise you to set aside at least a full day for it. 📍 Entry to the Jiayuguan scenic area is after 4 PM. The setting sun paints the city walls gold. Standing on the city tower, the snow-capped peaks of the Qilian Mountains stretch to the horizon; the desolate feeling is something no photograph can capture. ⚠️ Don't just visit the Jiayuguan Pass; the Overhanging Great Wall and the First Beacon Tower under Heaven are also worth seeing, especially the First Beacon Tower. The Taolai River Gorge below the cliff is bottomless, the wind is strong enough to blow your hat off, and your legs will feel weak standing on the glass viewing platform. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, head to the Jinglu Railway Market in the city. Apricot juice is only 3 yuan a cup, paired with grilled meat skewers—half the price at the entrance of the scenic area. ⏰ If time permits, don't rush to leave at night. The Jiayuguan Pass scenic area offers night tours; the ancient city walls under the lights have an added layer of mystery compared to the daytime. Accommodation in Jiayuguan is cheap; you can find clean and comfortable hotels for just over 100 yuan, making it a suitable starting or ending point for the Northwest Grand Loop. These eight places, free from crowds, each hides a more authentic side of China. What are your hidden gem destinations? Share in the comments, and I'll scout them out for you next time. Avoid the crowds! These 8️⃣ off-the-beaten-path cities hide the most authentic China 01 Yancheng|Jiangsu Want to see wild Père David's deer? You don't need to fly to Kenya. The China Père David's Deer Park in Dafeng, Yancheng, is the most "authentic" wildlife park I've ever seen. 🚄 It takes about an hour by taxi from Yancheng Station. I recommend arriving early, as the deer are most active in the morning. Don't rush to take the electric vehicles upon entering. Walk along the wooden boardwalk in the pedestrian area; you can see the deer running on the mudflats, their hooves splashing water—a scene more spectacular than any fenced zoo. There's a high observation tower in the park. 📍 Climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of the entire wetland. It can be windy, so remember to hold your hat tight. ⚠️ After 2 PM, the deer mostly hide in the shade and sleep. If you want to capture the "thousands of deer galloping" scene, be sure to enter the park before 10 AM. Tickets are just over 100 yuan, which is very reasonable compared to similar attractions. Families with children can rent an audio guide; kids are captivated by the story of the Deer King's Conquest. 02 Ma'anshan | Anhui Many locals in Anhui may not have visited Caishiji, but it truly is an underrated gem along the Yangtze River. I consider it a "mini-Nanjing" alternative—it lacks the crowds of Confucius Temple but offers equally magnificent river views. 📍 Taibai Tower is the core attraction. Climbing the tower to watch the Yangtze River bend and cargo ships slowly pass by evokes a sense of vastness and tranquility that is incredibly soothing. I recommend entering from the North Gate and walking along the riverside boardwalk towards Sanyuan Cave. The path is lined with cliff carvings, and you can relax on the riverside benches when you get tired. ⏰ After 4:30 PM, the tourists disperse, and the sunlight casts a slant on the Caishiji cliffs, perfect for silhouette photography. 🍜 Don't rush off after leaving. The Caishiji dried tofu sold outside the South Gate is a local favorite, costing only five yuan a pack—half the price inside the scenic area. Three hours is enough to leisurely explore the entire area, no need to get up early or stay out late, perfect for a weekend getaway. 03 Xilin Gol League | Inner Mongolia If your image of grasslands is still limited to "wind blowing through the grass revealing cattle and sheep," then Ulagai will overturn your perception—it's more like a forgotten green ocean. I drove from Bayinhushuo Town, and there were almost no other cars along the way, only the shadows of clouds moving across the grassy slopes. Compared to the mature commercialization of Hulunbuir, Ulagai retains a more rugged authenticity. 📍 The bend in the Ulagai River deep in the birch forest is a local's secret picnic spot; the river water is so clear you can see the patterns on the stones. ⚠️ Don't trust the "shortcuts" on your navigation system; after rain, the dirt roads can get your car stuck. Stick to the paved roads. ⏰ The sunsets on the grasslands are long; it's still light at 8 PM. Find a high spot to watch the sunset, where light and shadow dance on the undulating grass. At that moment, you'll feel that any journey was worthwhile. This area is more suitable for experienced drivers. Beginners are advised to hire a local driver, as there's no cell phone signal deep in the grasslands, so don't risk it. 04 Wenzhou|Zhejiang Yandang Mountain is quite famous, but I want to emphasize: don't just go for Dalongqiu Waterfall; Lingfeng is the real treasure. 📍 The silhouette of the "Clasping Hands Peak" in Lingfeng Scenic Area at dusk is even more breathtaking than during the day. The mountain resembles two clasped hands in the twilight. I recommend entering Lingfeng after 3 PM, first visiting Guanyin Cave, then circling around to Beidou Cave. The light filtering through the rock crevices and hitting the stone steps creates a sense of mystery. The second day is dedicated to Liu Bowen's hometown, about a two-hour drive from Yandang Mountain. The area around Chengyibo Temple in Nantian Town is very quiet, with ancient camphor trees providing ample shade, perfect for a leisurely stroll. ⏰ If time is limited, just visit Lingfeng at night – Yandang Mountain's night view is renowned for its wonders; the rocks transform into various silhouettes under the moonlight, telling countless stories, and the guide's explanations are ten times more vivid than during the day. ⚠️ Prices within the scenic area are relatively high, so it's recommended to bring your own water. The farmhouses at the foot of the mountain are more affordable than inside the scenic area. 05 Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai The name "Kekexili" alone evokes the breath of the wilderness. I traveled the section from Golmud to Yushu. 📍 Near the Budongquan Nature Reserve, you can see Tibetan antelopes grazing by the roadside. They aren't afraid of cars; instead, they curiously look up at you. This area isn't suitable for travelers in a rush; it's common to see three different weather conditions in a single day – clear skies in the morning, hail pelting your car windows in the afternoon. ⚠️ Never leave the road to chase animals. What looks close can actually be dozens of kilometers away, and you'll likely disturb them. The core area of ​​the Sanjiangyuan National Park is closed, but the surrounding Qumalai Grassland is breathtaking enough. 📍 The riverbank under the Tongtianhe Bridge is covered in blooming Gesang flowers in summer, and Tibetan grandmothers offer incense and prayers by the river; the tranquility is so profound that you dare not speak loudly. Those with average physical fitness are advised to bring oxygen cylinders, as the altitude of over 4,000 meters is no joke. This place is more suitable for travelers with reverence, not for those just looking for photos. 06 Ganzhou|Jiangxi Ganzhou has recently become my favorite place, especially Shicheng, which is completely untouched by commercialization. 📍 The Danxia landform of Tongtianzhai in Shicheng is wilder than Longhushan. The red cliffs are vibrant after the rain, as if washed clean. At the foot of the mountain, the ancient village of Bagua'nao still retains old houses from the Qing Dynasty. I spent a whole day in Shicheng, climbing Tongtianzhai in the morning and sitting in front of the ancestral hall in the ancient village watching the elderly play chess in the afternoon; time seemed to slow down. The next day, I went to Sanbaishan, the source of the Dongjiang River, where the water was unbelievably clear. ⏰ At 6 AM on a summer morning, the Three Hundred Mountains are shrouded in mist, the lake surface is like a mirror, and every snapshot looks like an ink painting. 🍜 Ganzhou cuisine is on the spicy side. I recommend the sweet potato starch dumplings in Shicheng. The skin is translucent, and biting into it releases a burst of flavorful soup. A bowl costs only three yuan, and I ate two bowls! 🚄 There's a direct high-speed train from Ganzhou West Station, making it very convenient from Guangdong. A two-day weekend is just right for a trip. 07 Xinyang|Henan I'd vote for Xinyang as the most underrated summer retreat in Henan. Jigong Mountain is a true "natural air-conditioned room"—you'll need a blanket at night in the summer. 📍 Baoxiao Peak is an excellent spot to watch the sunrise. Climbing up at 4:30 AM and witnessing the surging sea of ​​clouds makes the early start worthwhile. The cluster of international buildings on the mountain is fascinating; over a hundred-year-old villas are scattered among the trees, their red tiles and white walls against the mist, creating the feeling of stepping into a European town. ⏰ After 6 PM, most tourists have left, and the entire mountain is so quiet that only the wind and birdsong can be heard. A walk along the Changsheng Valley trail is filled with the scent of pine needles. ⚠️ Restaurants on the mountain are relatively expensive and mediocre. It's recommended to eat at the foot of the mountain on South Street before heading up. I recommend Xinyang stew with rice – it's heartwarming and comforting. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, you can take the scenic shuttle bus to the halfway point and then walk, saving a lot of energy. Autumn is even more beautiful; the mountainsides ablaze with red leaves against the backdrop of old villas offer a different kind of charm. 08 Jiayuguan | Gansu Many people use Jiayuguan as a transit point for Dunhuang, but I advise you to set aside at least a full day for it. 📍 Entry to the Jiayuguan scenic area is after 4 PM. The setting sun paints the city walls gold. Standing on the city tower, the snow-capped peaks of the Qilian Mountains stretch to the horizon; the desolate feeling is something no photograph can capture. ⚠️ Don't just visit the Jiayuguan Pass; the Overhanging Great Wall and the First Beacon Tower under Heaven are also worth seeing, especially the First Beacon Tower. The Taolai River Gorge below the cliff is bottomless, the wind is so strong it can blow your hat off, and your legs will definitely feel weak standing on the glass viewing platform. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, head to the Jinglu Railway Market in the city. Apricot juice is only three yuan a cup, paired with grilled meat skewers—half the price at the entrance of the scenic area. ⏰ If time permits, don't rush to leave at night. The Jiayuguan Pass scenic area offers night tours; the ancient city walls under the lights have an added layer of mystery compared to the daytime. Accommodation in Jiayuguan is cheap; you can find clean and comfortable hotels for just over 100 yuan, making it a suitable starting or ending point for the Northwest Grand Loop. These eight places, without the crowds, all hide another authentic side of China. What are your hidden gem destinations? Share in the comments, and I'll scout them out for you next time.

The 6-day Xilingol League winter tour guide is here! The Ulagai Ice and Snow Season from Jan–Apr 2026 is super lively. You can feed wolves, go horseback riding, take photos in Mongolian costumes, and enjoy snowmobiling, ice fishing, and winter fishing. With a private car and guide, you can stop whenever you want. Book now! · - This comprehensive travel guide has it all. Scroll down to unlock more details 👇 · - ✨Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Xilinhot, check in, and enjoy some free time Day 2–3: Xilingol Grassland – Ulagai Grassland – Bulin Spring – Ulagai Wolf Valley Scenic Area – Ulagai Grassland Jiuquwan Scenic Area. Experience feeding wolves, horseback riding, taking photos in Mongolian costumes, archery, and grass sliding Day 4: Nomadic Tribe – Birch Forest Scenic Area – Banla Mountain Scenic Area – Mongolian Khan City Tourist Area. Enjoy an immersive grassland tour with the flexibility to stop whenever you like Day 5: Wulan Wutai – Genghis Khan Lookout Mountain – Beizi Temple. Experience the rich Mongolian cultural heritage Day 6: Travel across the border line in an SUV and ride through the pristine grasslands before heading home Special note: The 3rd Ice and Snow Cultural Tourism Event will be held at Ulagai Jiuquwan from Jan 10–Apr 2026. Experience the extra-long snow slide, snowmobiling, snow car racing, ice fishing, winter fishing, and more! · - Must-visit attractions: Xilingol Grassland ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: East side of Zhagesitai Scenic Area National Nature Reserve, Xilingol Grassland Opening hours: Open all day Duration: 1–2 days Cattle and sheep dot the carpet-like green grassland, and wild chives cover the slopes. Even the lamb here tastes fresh. Just walking around is healing~ Ulagai Grassland ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: East Ujimqin Banner, Xilingol League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Opening hours: Open all day Duration: 1–2 days Known as the "Grassland on the Horizon," you can also see ancient battlefield ruins here. In early summer, flocks of migratory birds rest at Bayin Lake, creating a perfect atmosphere! Ulagai Wolf Valley Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐ Address: Hesige Wula Ranch, Ulagai Management Area, East Ujimqin Banner, Xilingol League (at the 20km mark of the He-E Highway) Opening hours: Aug 16–Oct 7, 08:00–17:30 Duration: 3–5 hours A filming location for "Wolf Totem," where you can experience the wild charm of prairie wolves up close. Ulagai Grassland Jiuquwan Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: East Ujimqin Banner, Xilingol League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Opening hours: May 1–Oct 8, 08:00–17:30 Duration: 3–5 hours The winding grassland wetlands are incredibly healing, and there's a stunning sea of red willow flowers. In winter, there are also lively ice and snow cultural tourism activities~ Mongolian Khan City Tourist Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: 15km south of Provincial Highway 204, West Ujimqin Banner, Xilingol League Opening hours: May 25–Sep 1, 07:00–22:00 Duration: 1 day A replica of the Khan City where Genghis Khan's coronation ceremony took place. Stay in a luxury yurt to watch the starry grassland sky, enjoy intangible cultural heritage performances, experience Naadam events, and feast on authentic Mongolian cuisine! · - 👕 Clothing: Bring a light long-sleeved jacket, sun-protective clothing, breathable long pants, and short-sleeved shirts. The grassland is cool in the morning and evening, so bring warm layers 🎒 Accessories: Wear a wide-brimmed sun hat and sunglasses. Bring a portable water bottle and mosquito repellent. You can also bring a shawl to block the wind 📝 Documents: Bring your ID card and student ID (for discounts). Have screenshots of your health code ready in advance 📱 Travel gear: Bring a power bank and camera. Download offline maps, as signal can be spotty in some parts of the grassland 🧴 Skincare: Bring high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, and moisturizing cream. The grassland is windy with strong UV rays · - Your trip is planned. Tap the card below to start your exclusive journey~

🚙 Want to escape the city hustle and enjoy a free, unconstrained road trip? You must drive the G331 National Highway! ✨ This "legendary, ultra-beautiful northern border highway" is a must-visit. It's hassle-free, 🆓 free of admission fees, and the scenery looks like it has a built-in filter! It connects grasslands, the Gobi Desert, borders, and lakes 🌊. Every view outside your window is picture-perfect, and it's easy enough for beginner drivers—truly the gold standard for road trips! 🌿 Xilingol Grassland Section | Immerse yourself in a green fairy-tale world The soul of the eastern G331 is the endless Xilingol Grassland! 🍃 It's full of fresh green, and every shot is wallpaper-worthy 📱, creating an incredibly immersive atmosphere 🌱. ✅ Recommended photo spots 👇 · Native grasslands along the way: 🆓 No need to crowd into paid scenic spots! 🛣️ Beautiful wild grasslands are everywhere along the road, with wide views and few people. · Roadside herder pastures: Encounter scattered yurts 🏕️ and herds of cattle and sheep 🐑—authentic, pristine grassland scenery. · Seasonal Naadam grounds: High chance of encountering folk activities in summer 🤼, with a great atmosphere. ✅ Recommended activities: 1. Roadside photo stops 📸: Find a safe parking area, get out, run around 🏃‍♀️, feel the breeze 🌬️, and take photos with cattle and sheep in the background 🖼️. 2. Grassland strolls: Walk on the soft grass, watch the low clouds drift and the light shift 📷, and 💆 relieve all your fatigue. 3. Experience grassland customs 🐑: Get up close to see herders grazing livestock, and in peak season, you might encounter horse racing 🏇 and Mongolian song and dance performances. 4. Simple picnic: Bring your own snacks and drinks 🍸 and find a quiet corner by the grassland to enjoy a road-trip picnic vibe. ✅ Photography tips: Wear white, light colors, or denim for great photos 📷! Try side-profile backlit shots or action shots while running to easily capture relaxed, cinematic travel photos. 🌵 Erenhot Gobi Section | Unlock the desolate, magnificent romance of the Northwest Heading west, the scenery changes instantly! The lush green grasslands fade away, and the vast, desolate Gobi Desert takes center stage—vast and lonely, with a unique, breathtaking beauty 🌄. ✅ Recommended photo spots 👇 · Erenhot Dinosaur Geopark 🦖: A super popular spot! Giant dinosaur sculptures are scattered across the Gobi 🦕, creating an incredible wilderness atmosphere. · G331 Gobi highway secret spot: A straight road leading to the horizon 🛣️, with little traffic and wide lanes—perfect for epic road trip photos. · Gobi sunset viewing spot: The open wilderness to the west 🌇 is a stunning place to watch the sunset. ✅ Recommended activities: 1. Gobi highway photo op 🚗: Drive slowly with the windows down, take videos from the car window or of the road ahead—the vibe is incredible. 2. Dinosaur park tour: Walk through the fossil site exhibition area to see the unique combination of the Gobi landscape and giant dinosaurs—niche and awe-inspiring. 3. Catch a Gobi sunset 🌇: You must stay for the evening! The orange-red sunset covers the entire Gobi, creating beautiful light and shadows. 4. Immersive wilderness relaxation: Get away from the crowds, quietly feel the vastness of the world, and let all your worries drift away ☁️. ✅ Photography tips: Dark or vintage outfits match the texture of the Gobi! 🛣️ Shoot long shots to capture the road's extension, and close-ups for a relaxed vibe—📷 no bad shots. 🇨🇳 Border City Section | Experience unique Sino-Mongolian exotic charm After the grasslands and Gobi, you'll arrive at the hidden gem of a border city, Erenhot! It combines the hustle and bustle of the Northwest with exotic flair, perfect for a short, slow-paced trip to recharge ✨. ✅ Recommended photo spots 👇 · Erenhot National Gate Scenic Area: An iconic landmark of the northern border! Climb to the top for a view of the Sino-Mongolian border, 🇨🇳 and take a photo at the boundary marker for a sense of occasion. · Border specialty commercial street: Lots of unique Mongolian and Russian shops—niche and fun to explore. · Local food streets: Gatherings of authentic Inner Mongolian flavors—a must-visit for foodies. ✅ Recommended activities: 1. National Gate Scenic Area visit 🏞: Take photos, learn about border culture, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of the country's border. 2. Explore specialty shops: Shop for Mongolian and Russian snacks, accessories, and creative souvenirs—affordable and memorable 🏅. 3. Unlock Inner Mongolian cuisine 🍖: Must-try hand-grabbed mutton, creamy milk tea 🧋, and soft milk skin 🍬—savor the authentic flavors. 4. City stroll and photography: The street architecture has an exotic feel, making every casual shot look like a niche travel photo. ✨ Cross-border short trip experience | Step into two countries at once ✨ 👉 Travel requirements 📋 · The Erenhot ↔ Zamyn-Uud day trip is a group tour, so no passport or visa is required! · Just bring your ID card 🪪 and sign up with a legitimate travel agency. · All declarations, verifications, and border inspection procedures are handled by the travel agency. Customs clearance takes about half an hour, 💗 making it worry-free and easy. 👉 Things to do 🛍️ · After arriving in Zamyn-Uud, you can browse the local duty-free shops 💰—shopping is so much fun 🛒! · Recommended buys: Cashmere products 🐑, specialty dairy foods, Russian chocolate 🍫, and handmade silver jewelry—👍 great value for money. · Payment is convenient; WeChat Pay and Alipay are both accepted 💰. It's recommended to carry a small amount of cash for some smaller shops. · You can also taste local Mongolian cuisine 😋 and experience the exotic local atmosphere. 📝 Essential tips for driving the G331 | A must-read for beginners to avoid pitfalls ✅ Road conditions and supplies: Beginner-friendly! Gas stations are far apart, ⛽️ so fill up whenever you see one—don't wait until the tank is empty. ✅ Clothing 🧥: Huge temperature difference between day and night! The Gobi weather is changeable ☁️, so wind protection and sun protection are essential. ✅ Signal and navigation: No mobile signal on many sections 📶. Download offline maps in advance, 🙅‍♂️ and do not go off-roading without authorization. ✅ Travel etiquette: Do not trample on private grasslands 🍃 or Ovoos, do not litter 🚮, and protect the pristine scenery. ✅ Driving safety: Cattle and sheep often cross the road in grassland and Gobi sections 🚗. Slow down and watch out for livestock. 🌌 The romance of the G331, 🌀 from the gentle grasslands with wind-blown waves of grass, to the vast and desolate Gobi wilderness, and finally to the unique border city 🏡! Drive slowly, take your time—that's the meaning of a road trip! You have to drive the G331 at least once in your life and pack all that freedom and vastness into your journey~ Images provided by Xilingol Culture and Tourism

Where to go for budget travel in Sept–Oct? 8 low-budget destinations 01 Xilingol League | Inner Mongolia In September, the Ulagai Grassland turns from green to gold; the wind makes the whole landscape look like it's changing filters. ⏰ The best time is before 10 AM—the light is angled, there are fewer people, and you don't have to fight for a photo spot. Carpooling from downtown Xilinhot to Ulagai costs about CNY 100 per person, half the price of a private car. Staying in the city is cheaper than at the scenic area entrance, and you can check out the morning market for yogurt pancakes. The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is huge; it can drop to single digits at night in September, so bringing a thick jacket is a smart move. ⚠️ If you're driving, don't trust GPS shortcuts. There are no real roads on the grassland; following tire tracks is the only way to be safe. Suitable for students and those with flexible time; 3 days and 2 nights is enough. Go in mid-September if you want to see the golden grass waves; any later and you'll only find withered grass and cold winds. 02 Beijing The secret to budget travel in Beijing is simple: stay along the subway lines, not next to the tourist attractions. The Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, and Beihai Park are all accessible by subway; the money you save on taxis is enough for two bowls of zhajiang noodles. You must book the Forbidden City on the official website 7 days in advance. ⚠️ It's closed on Mondays—don't ask me how I know. ⏰ Enter the Summer Palace after 3 PM to avoid half the crowds; the sunset over Kunming Lake is worth much more than the scorching midday sun. The Temple of Heaven opens at 6:30 AM; the local seniors will be there before you, and watching them practice tai chi is more interesting than looking at the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. Boating at Beihai Park is charged by the hour; a 4-person boat costs CNY 20 per person, which is more reasonable than many viral attractions. For food, Huguosi snacks are half the price of Nanluoguxiang. Try a bowl of douzhi (fermented mung bean milk) first; don't force yourself if you can't handle the taste. Suitable for young people with good stamina; 20,000 steps a day is the baseline. 03 Baise | Guangxi At Haokun Lake in Baise, the water level is stable and there are few tourists in September. The boardwalk around the lake takes about 2 hours and is completely flat, making it manageable even for seniors. 📍 Navigate to the Haokun Village pier, not the scenic area gate—they are several kilometers apart. You have to descend to the bottom of Tongling Grand Canyon and climb back up; the steps are slippery, so ⚠️ wear non-slip shoes—flip-flop wearers will regret it. ⏰ The waterfall has the most water after rain, but the paths are also the slipperiest, so weigh your options. Chengbi Lake is best in the evening; the BBQ stalls by the lake cost CNY 30–40 per person, cheaper than restaurants in the city. Stay in downtown Baise; buses to all attractions are convenient, and a one-way taxi ride costs no more than CNY 50. It's still hot in Guangxi in September, so bring enough water. Suitable for those who want to avoid the crowds in Guilin and are on a tight budget; 3 days is just right. 04 Xi'an | Shaanxi The secret to budget travel in Xi'an: stay in a hostel near the Bell Tower. You'll be right on Subway Line 2, making it easy to get anywhere. The Terracotta Warriors ticket is CNY 120; ⚠️ don't buy jade at the entrance—whoever buys it is just paying "tuition fees." The Qinling Zhongnan Mountain is perfect for a day trip to escape the city; the bus and scenic area shuttle cost less than CNY 30 round trip. ⏰ Autumn leaves start in October; it's still mostly green in September. The History Museum is free but hard to book; try to snag a spot 3 days in advance. If you can't get a reservation, go cycling on the Xi'an City Wall—renting a bike is CNY 45 for 3 hours, and it's most pleasant at dusk. 📍 Enter at the South Gate and exit at the East Gate, and grab a bite at Yongxingfang along the way. You can walk around the Muslim Quarter, but don't eat your main meals there; the side alleys further in are cheaper and more authentic. Suitable for students and history buffs; 3 days isn't enough, 4 days is more relaxed. 05 Handan | Hebei Guangfu Ancient City is one of those places that "isn't famous but is truly beautiful." The city wall is free to climb, and you can walk around the moat. ⏰ Go in the evening; it has more character once the lights are on. 📍 Enter at the South Gate and exit at the East Gate, and grab a donkey meat burger along the way. Wahuang Palace is on a mountain; the one-way cable car is CNY 40. ⚠️ If you have bad knees, don't force yourself to climb—the steps are steep and dense. It's cool on the mountain in September, making it suitable for a slow stroll with parents. There are buses from downtown Handan to Guangfu Ancient City for just a few yuan, saving you CNY 60 compared to a taxi. Stay in the city; you can get a clean room for CNY 100+. Suitable for those on a tight budget who want to see something authentic; 2 days and 1 night is enough. Go in early October for crisp autumn weather—no filters needed for photos. 06 Lanzhou | Gansu Lanzhou is a treasure among budget travel hubs; a bowl of beef noodles is CNY 8, and adding meat and an egg is only CNY 15. 🍜 The old shop at Mogouyan is more reliable than the viral ones and opens at 6 AM. Baita Mountain Park is free; climb up to see the Yellow River flowing through the city. ⏰ Go at dusk when the lights on the Zhongshan Bridge and the river light up together. The Provincial Museum is free; ⚠️ it's closed on Mondays, and the "Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow" is on the second floor. Stay at the West Station or Xiguan; hostel beds are CNY 40–50, and the bus is CNY 1 to get anywhere in the city. Carpooling to surrounding attractions is more cost-effective than a private car, keeping costs under CNY 80 per person. Suitable for solo travelers who want to save money without sacrificing good food. It's not hot in Lanzhou in September, and the breeze by the Yellow River at night is more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. 07 Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hunan Fenghuang Ancient Town no longer charges a general admission fee, but ⚠️ don't trust the "combo tickets" from touts on the street—they are all scams. ⏰ The Tuojiang River before 7 AM is the quietest; the mist hasn't cleared yet, so you don't have to dodge heads in your photos. Dehang Grand Canyon and Aizhai can be done in one day; the Aizhai Bridge viewing deck is worth visiting, and walking the boardwalk in the canyon is cool. 📍 Taking the bus from Jishou is half the price of a private car. Shibadong Village is great for a slow stroll; farm meals in the village are CNY 30 per person, half the price of those in the ancient town. Stay on the outskirts of Fenghuang Ancient Town; river-view rooms are expensive, but inns in the alleys are great for CNY 100+. Suitable for those who want to see some scenery while keeping a tight budget; 3 days and 2 nights is just right. There are fewer people in September, and there's autumn foliage in October—take your pick. 08 Jinhua | Zhejiang If you want to save money at Hengdian World Studios, don't buy the combo tickets; choose two parks and explore them slowly. ⚠️ Buying tickets online is cheaper than at the venue, so book one day in advance. ⏰ Enter as soon as the park opens at 8:30 AM to save half an hour of queuing. The Shuanglong Scenic Area is good for half a day; it's cool in the karst caves, so bring a light jacket if you go in September. 📍 There are direct buses from downtown Jinhua, costing just a few yuan, whereas a taxi costs CNY 60. Staying in downtown Jinhua is cheaper than in Hengdian, and you can go to Guzicheng at night to eat Jinhua pot for CNY 40 per person until you're full. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Jinhua Station and then the bus to Hengdian; don't take a taxi. Suitable for students and families with kids; 2 days and 1 night is enough. September avoids the end of the summer vacation, so there are fewer people and tickets are easier to get. These eight places are perfect for a visit in September and October. Which one do you want to hit first? Let me know in the comments.

8️⃣ Budget-Friendly Kid-Friendly Destinations in September 01 Guilin City | Guangxi When traveling to Guilin with kids, don't rush straight for the Li River cruise. Tickets are expensive, it's crowded, and kids won't stay still for more than half an hour. I recommend starting from Xingping Ancient Town. The location featured on the 20 RMB note is here. Around 5 pm, the light is softest, the river shimmers golden, and you don't have to fight for a good spot to take photos. The ancient town's cobblestone streets are gentle enough for strollers. Mugwort cakes from roadside stalls are only 5 RMB each; eat them while they're hot—they're fragrant and not greasy. The Reed Flute Cave's karst cave walkways are well-maintained. The cave is consistently around 20 degrees Celsius, making it most comfortable to enter when it's unbearably hot in September. The entire walk takes about an hour, and kids will be mesmerized by the lights chasing the "Crystal Palace." In mid-September, the Longji Rice Terraces are a golden yellow, layered like a honey-colored carpet. However, the mountain paths have many steps, so I recommend baby carriers or hip seats for young children; don't push a stroller. Choose a stilted house halfway up the terraced fields for accommodation; the owner will come down to pick up your luggage, saving you a lot of effort. Remember to bring an extra light jacket for your child, as the temperature difference between day and night in the mountains is significant, and it gets cool very quickly. 02 Xilin Gol League | Inner Mongolia In September, the grasslands are no longer bustling with summer noise. The grass is still green, but the wind is already chilly; you'll need a sweater in the mornings and evenings. What impressed me most about the Ulagai Grassland was its boundless tranquility. Children can run freely without worrying about bumping into people or getting their clothes dirty; even if they fall, they'll find soft grass as a cushion. Accommodation in yurts run by local herders costs around 200 yuan per night, including a hand-pulled mutton dinner—the meat is stewed until tender, and even children can eat it. During the day, you need to negotiate the price for horseback riding; normally it's 50 yuan for a lap. If it's more than that, turn around and leave, and they'll definitely call you back. Before sunset, take your children to the river to collect stones. The water is shallow and clear, and you can see small fish swimming around, which excites them more than any amusement park. The starry sky at night is frighteningly bright, with the Milky Way hanging overhead, making the kids scream with excitement. ⚠️ There are no proper hospitals on the grasslands, so be sure to bring all your essential medications, including adhesive bandages and fever-reducing patches. 03 Changzhi City | Shanxi Baquan Gorge in the Taihang Grand Canyon is one of the least strenuous scenic areas I've visited with my child. Upon entering, you take a sightseeing bus, then transfer to a boat to cruise through the canyon. The water is emerald green, and the sheer cliffs on both sides seem to press down on you; the kids will be screaming "So high!" from the side of the boat the whole way. After disembarking, there's a flight of stairs to climb, but it's not too steep; children over five can manage on their own. When tired, you can sit on the rocks by the stream to rest; the sound of the water drowns out all other noise, making it incredibly soothing. There are few food vendors in the scenic area, so I recommend bringing your own bread, sausages, and plenty of water; don't expect to find supplies along the way. Buy your entrance ticket and boat ticket separately. Booking in advance through official channels will save you queuing time. Ticket prices are subject to change based on the announcement on the day. The entire canyon walk takes about three hours. The best time for photos is after 2 PM when the sunlight shines obliquely into the valley floor. ⚠️ Signal is poor in the canyon; download an offline map beforehand to avoid getting lost. 04 Dongguan City | Guangdong Many people don't know that the Humen Bridge in Dongguan is actually a great place to take kids. It's not about walking on the bridge, but about visiting the naval museum and the Weiyuan Fort ruins below. Standing in front of the ancient fort, with cars flowing on the bridge and waves crashing below, the sense of history and modernity creating a contrast will even quiet children for a few seconds. The museum is free; just scan your ID to enter. It's closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. After visiting the fort, drive ten minutes to Taiping Old Street and find a dessert shop. Double-skin milk pudding and mango pomelo sago are only around ten yuan a bowl, with generous portions. September in Guangdong is still hot, so try to go outdoors in the morning, escape to the air-conditioned museum at noon, and then go to the seaside boardwalk after 4 PM for some fresh air. If you're bringing kids, remember to use a stroller, as the shade is limited. Don't forget sun hats and mosquito repellent. 05 Yueyang City | Hunan Yueyang Tower is very famous, but September is actually more comfortable to visit as there are fewer tourists, allowing for a leisurely stroll. I suggest climbing the tower in the morning and reciting Fan Zhongyan's "Yueyang Tower Inscription." Imagine your child standing on the tower, pointing at Dongting Lake and reciting "It embraces distant mountains and swallows the Yangtze River"—that moment of textbook knowledge becoming reality is well worth the price of admission. The tower itself isn't very tall, but the stairs are narrow, so you'll need to hold your child's hand. After descending, don't rush off. Take a walk south along the city wall path by Dongting Lake. It's breezy but not dry, and the lake is dotted with white sails. Walk as far as you can. Have lunch on Bianhe Street. Find a restaurant with a sign that says "Huitouyu" (meaning "Returning Fish"). The fish soup is incredibly delicious, and you'll be stuffed for around 50 yuan per person. In the afternoon, take a 20 yuan boat ride to Junshan Island. The island isn't large; a complete tour takes about two hours. It's full of tea plantations and bamboo groves, giving kids plenty of room to run around. ⚠️ Boat services stop at 4:30 PM, so don't miss the last boat. 06 Hengshui City | Hebei Province Hengshui Lake is the kind of place that looks unassuming but is incredibly comfortable to stay in. In September, the lotus flowers are still in their late bloom, and the reeds are already turning yellow. Rent a pedal boat and slowly paddle into the center of the lake; water birds swim right beside the boat, and children can reach out and touch the reeds. Boat rental is 60 yuan per hour, enough to enjoy to your heart's content. The lakeside path is flat and suitable for cycling; tandem bicycles are available for rent at 30 yuan per hour, perfect for a ride with kids. For lunch, go to a farmhouse by the lake for fish stew with flatbread. The fish is freshly caught from the lake, so fresh you'll want to swallow your tongue! In the afternoon, you can take your kids to the Hengshui Lake Bird Museum, which is free and offers various migratory bird specimens. Children are most interested in the raptor section. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are fierce by the lake, so bring long pants and mosquito repellent, especially in the evening. 07 Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang September at Sayram Lake is the kind of blue you'll remember for a lifetime after just one look. The water is so clear you can see the pebbles at the bottom, the distant snow-capped mountains are still covered in fresh snow, the wind is biting like a razor, but the sunshine is warm on your skin. If you're bringing kids, you don't need to drive around the lake. Just drive to the South Gate area, find a grassy slope to sit on, let the kids throw stones and chase water birds, and you can just gaze at the lake. It's windy by the lake, so make sure your hat has a drawstring, or it'll fly off in a second. Anjihai Grand Canyon is a side trip on the way to Sayram Lake. The terrain looks like a crack in the earth. Standing on the viewing platform and looking down, your kids will ask, "Is the earth broken?" It's truly breathtaking, but be sure to hold onto your little ones tightly; there are no railings, safety first. In Wenquan County, the mountains and waters are perfect for a relaxing soak after a long hike. The family-friendly hot springs are clean, the water temperature is just right, and your skin will feel smooth and supple afterward. September is considered off-season here, so accommodation is cheap; you can get a standard room with underfloor heating for around 300 yuan. 08 Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan Xinduqiao in September is a paradise for photographers and the best window for taking kids to see the "oil painting world." The poplar leaves are half yellow, and sunlight filters through the gaps onto the roofs of Tibetan-style houses—every shot looks like a wallpaper. However, at an altitude of 3300 meters, if your child becomes drowsy or has a headache, immediately move them to a lower altitude; don't push them. Mugecuo is easier; the scenic area bus takes you directly to the lake, so there's no need to climb. The lake is like a mirror, reflecting the snow-capped mountains and forests; kids can spend half an hour feeding the fish. Daocheng Yading is beautiful, but the hiking is strenuous and the altitude is even higher. If you're traveling with kids, I advise you to assess your abilities and stick to shorter routes; leave the longer ones for another time. At Hailuogou, take the cable car up to see the glacier. Kids will be quiet for a long time watching the huge ice tongues jutting down from the snow-capped peaks. September is the tail end of the rainy season, and roads may be slippery, so be sure to choose a four-wheel drive vehicle when renting. You need to show your ID card to enter scenic spots, so book in advance via a mini-program. Ticket prices are subject to official announcements on the day. After discussing so many places, if I could only choose one, I would choose Guilin because it's not tiring for adults and children, and it's less expensive. Have you got a better idea? Share your plans for taking your kids in the comments! 8️⃣ Places for Low-Budget Kid-Friendly Trips in September: Less Crowded and Beautiful 01 Guilin City | Guangxi When bringing kids to Guilin, don't rush straight for the Li River cruise. Tickets are expensive, it's crowded, and kids won't stay still for more than half an hour. I recommend starting from Xingping Ancient Town. The location featured on the 20 RMB note is here. Around 5 pm, the light is softest, the river shimmers golden, and you don't have to fight for a good spot to take photos. The cobblestone streets in the ancient town are flat, so strollers are no problem. Mugwort cakes from roadside stalls are only 5 yuan each; eat them while they're hot—they're fragrant and not greasy. The Reed Flute Cave's karst cave walkways are well-maintained, and the cave temperature stays around 20 degrees Celsius year-round. It's most comfortable to enter when it's unbearably hot at midday in September. The entire walk takes about an hour, and children will be mesmerized, chasing the lights to see the "Crystal Palace." In mid-September, the rice in the Longji Rice Terraces turns golden, layer upon layer like a spread-out honey-colored carpet. However, the mountain paths have many steps, so it's recommended to use a baby carrier or hip seat for young children, rather than pushing a stroller. For accommodation, choose a stilted house halfway up the terraces; the owner will come down to pick up your luggage, saving you a lot of effort. Remember to bring an extra light jacket for your child, as the temperature difference between day and night in the mountains is significant, and it gets cool very quickly. 02 Xilin Gol League | Inner Mongolia In September, the grasslands are no longer bustling with summer noise. The grass is still green, but the wind is already chilly; you'll need a sweater in the mornings and evenings. What impressed me most about the Ulagai Grassland was its boundless tranquility. Children can run freely without worrying about bumping into people or getting their clothes dirty; even if they fall, the grass will be a soft mat. Accommodation in yurts run by local herders costs around 200 yuan per night, including a hand-pulled mutton dinner—the meat is stewed until tender, even children can eat it. Horse riding during the day requires negotiation; a normal lap costs 50 yuan. If it's more than that, turn around and leave, they'll definitely call you back. Before sunset, take the kids to the river to collect stones. The water is shallow and clear, and you can see small fish swimming around, which excites them more than any amusement park. At night, the starry sky is frighteningly bright, with the Milky Way hanging overhead, making the kids scream with excitement. ⚠️ There are no regular hospitals on the grasslands, so be sure to bring all your commonly used medicines, including adhesive bandages and fever-reducing patches. 03 Changzhi City | Shanxi The Baquan Gorge in the Taihang Grand Canyon is one of the least strenuous scenic areas I've visited with my child. Upon entering, you first take a sightseeing bus, then transfer to a boat to travel through the gorge. The water is emerald green, and the sheer cliffs on both sides seem to press down on you; the kids will be screaming "So high!" all the way to the side of the boat. After disembarking, there's a flight of stairs to climb, but it's not steep; children over five can walk it on their own. If you get tired, you can sit on the rocks by the stream to rest; the sound of the water drowns out all other noise, making it incredibly soothing. There are few food vendors in the scenic area, so it's recommended to bring your own bread, sausages, and plenty of water; don't expect to find supplies along the way. Buy your entrance ticket and boat ticket separately. Booking in advance through official channels will save you queuing time. Ticket prices are subject to change based on the announcement on the day. The entire canyon walk takes about three hours. The best time for photos is after 2 PM when the sunlight shines obliquely into the valley floor. ⚠️ Signal strength is poor in the canyon; download an offline map beforehand to avoid getting lost. 04 Dongguan City|Guangdong Many people don't know that the Humen Bridge in Dongguan is actually a great place to take children. It's not about walking on the bridge, but about visiting the naval museum and the former Weiyuan Fortress below. Standing in front of the ancient fortress, with cars flowing on the bridge and waves crashing on the shore below, the sense of history and modernity juxtaposed will even quiet children for a few seconds. The museum is free; just scan your ID to enter. It's closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. After visiting the fort, drive ten minutes to Taiping Old Street and find a dessert shop. Double-skin milk pudding and mango pomelo sago are only around ten yuan a bowl, with generous portions. September in Guangdong is still hot, so try to go outdoors in the morning, retreat to the air-conditioned museum at noon, and then head to the seaside boardwalk after 4 pm for some fresh air. If you're bringing children, remember to use a stroller, as there isn't much shade. Sun hats and mosquito repellent are essential. 05 Yueyang City | Hunan Yueyang Tower is very famous, but September is actually more comfortable to visit as there are fewer tourists, allowing for a leisurely stroll. I suggest climbing the tower in the morning and reciting Fan Zhongyan's "Yueyang Tower Inscription." Imagine your child standing on the tower, pointing at Dongting Lake and reciting "embracing distant mountains, swallowing the Yangtze River"—that moment of textbook knowledge coming to life is worth the ticket price. The tower itself isn't very tall, and the stairs are narrow, so you'll need to hold your child's hand while walking. After going downstairs, don't rush off. Take a stroll south along the city wall walkway by Dongting Lake. The wind is strong but not dry, and white sails dot the lake. Walk as far as you can. Have lunch on Bianhe Street. Find a restaurant with a sign that says "Hui Tou Yu" (meaning "Returning Fish"). The fish soup is incredibly delicious, and you can eat your fill for about 50 yuan per person. In the afternoon, take a boat to Junshan Island for 20 yuan. The island isn't big; a complete circuit takes about two hours. It's full of tea plantations and bamboo groves, and kids can run around freely. ⚠️ Boat departures stop at 4:30 PM, so don't miss the last boat. 06 Hengshui City | Hebei Hengshui Lake is the kind of place that looks unassuming but is incredibly comfortable to stay in. The lotus flowers are still in their late bloom in September, and the reeds are already turning yellow. Rent a pedal boat and slowly paddle into the center of the lake. Water birds swim past the boat, and children can reach out and touch the reeds. Boat rental is 60 yuan per hour, enough to enjoy yourself to the fullest. The lakeside path is flat and perfect for cycling. Tandem bicycles are available for rent at 30 yuan per hour, ideal for a ride with kids. For lunch, head to a lakeside farmhouse for fish stew with flatbread. The fish is freshly caught from the lake, so fresh you'll want to lick your tongue. In the afternoon, take the kids to the Hengshui Lake Bird Museum, which is free and features various migratory bird specimens. Children are most interested in the raptor section. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are fierce by the lake, so bring long pants and mosquito repellent, especially in the evening. 07 Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang September at Sayram Lake is the kind of blue you'll remember forever. The water is so clear you can see the pebbles at the bottom, and the distant snow-capped mountains are still covered in fresh snow. The wind is biting, but the sunshine is warm. With kids, you don't need to drive around the lake. Just drive to the south gate area, find a grassy slope to sit on, let the kids throw stones and chase water birds, and you can simply gaze at the lake and relax. The wind is strong by the lake, so hats with drawstrings are a must, or they'll fly off in a second. The Anjihai Grand Canyon is a side trip on the way to Sayram Lake; the terrain resembles a crack in the earth. Standing on the viewing platform and looking down, children will ask, "Is the earth broken?" It's truly breathtaking, but hold onto your little ones tightly; there are no railings, safety first. Wenquan County is perfect for a relaxing soak after a long hike. The family-friendly hot springs are clean, the water temperature is just right, and your skin will feel smooth afterwards. September is considered off-season here, so accommodation is cheap; you can get a standard room with underfloor heating for around 300 yuan. 08 Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan Xinduqiao in September is a paradise for photographers and the best window for taking children to see the "oil painting world." The poplar leaves are half yellow, and sunlight filters through the gaps onto the roofs of Tibetan houses; every shot is wallpaper-worthy. However, at an altitude of 3300 meters, if your child becomes drowsy or has a headache, immediately move them to a lower altitude; don't try to tough it out. Mugecuo is more relaxing; the scenic area bus takes you directly to the lake, no climbing required. The lake is like a mirror, reflecting the snow-capped mountains and forests. Kids can spend half an hour feeding the fish. Daocheng Yading is beautiful, but the hiking is strenuous and the altitude is higher. If you're traveling with kids, I advise you to assess your abilities and stick to shorter routes; leave the longer ones for another time. Hailuogou is for glaciers; take the cable car up. Kids will be deeply moved by the sight of the massive ice tongues cascading down from the snow-capped peaks. September is the tail end of the rainy season, so roads may be slippery; be sure to choose a four-wheel drive vehicle when renting. You need to show your ID card to enter the scenic area, so book in advance via a mini-program. Ticket prices are subject to official announcements on the day. After discussing so many places across nine locations, if I could only choose one, I would choose Guilin because it's less tiring for both adults and children, and less expensive. Have you got a better idea? Share your plans for a trip with your kids in the comments!

🎨 The holiday season is just around the corner. Still deciding where to travel? Many people's impression of Xilingol is limited to the endless green grass of midsummer. But in autumn, Xilingol's natural palette is overturned, with golden meadows, clear skies ☀️, and brilliant starry skies 🌾 taking turns. Not only is there stunning natural scenery, but also unique grassland dairy-based mooncakes 🥮 you can't find anywhere else. Scenery and food are a perfect match—this is the right way to experience an autumn grassland trip ✨. 🟡 Gold | Autumn romance across the wilderness When city leaves are slowly turning yellow 🍂, Xilingol Grassland has already put on a golden outfit. ✅ Scenery highlights: 📌 The endless grassland loses its green 🍃, covered in warm, dazzling gold. The wind blows, grass waves rise and fall 🌾, cattle and sheep wander slowly on the meadow, scattered haystacks dot the wilderness, 🌳 and distant forests are also dyed in layers of autumn yellow. 📌 Driving along the way, there are vast wilderness scenes everywhere 🚗. No need to look for popular photo spots; you can take atmospheric autumn photos right by the road 📷. ✅ Recommended activities: 📌 Go on a road trip, drive slowly along the grassland highway, 📷 stop to take photos anytime, and immerse yourself in the autumn wilderness. 📌 Walk on the soft autumn grass 🚶‍➡️, feel the scent of grass and trees carried by the autumn wind 💆, and relax your body and mind. 🔵 Clear blue | The vast, clear sky that feels like everything Only after seeing Xilingol's blue sky do you understand what "high sky and light clouds" means ☁. ✅ Scenery highlights: 📌 Far from city smog, the sky here is clean and transparent ☁️, blue as far as the eye can see. In golden autumn 🍂, the warm golden grassland paired with the clean blue sky creates a minimalist, high-end aesthetic. 📌 Large white clouds float slowly, and you can look toward the horizon without obstruction. After seeing too much dazzling city neon 🌇, this blue sky can soothe visual fatigue. ✅ Recommended activities: 📌 Sit still and let the wind blow 🌀, watch the clouds roll and unfurl, 📷 and get social media-worthy shots straight out of the camera without editing. 📌 Wait for dusk at sunset 🌇, watch the blue sky slowly turn orange, and feel the romantic grassland twilight. ⚫ Dark night | The starry sky hidden under the night curtain After seeing the vast scenery during the day, don't miss the grassland night 🌌. ✅ Scenery highlights: 📌 Far from city lights, the grassland night is pure and heavy. As night falls, the Milky Way spans the entire night sky, Altair 🌟 and Vega look at each other from afar, and it feels like the stars are within reach. 📌 An autumn night paired with a bonfire 🔥 dispels the night's chill, leaving only the silent wilderness and the vast starry sky. ✅ Recommended activities: 📌 Go out of your homestay or yurt 🏕️ at night, look up at the brilliant galaxy, and feel the vastness of heaven and earth. 📌 Bring your camera to record the rare grassland Milky Way 🌌. ⚠ Reminder: The temperature difference between day and night in the grassland in autumn is large 🧥. Be sure to wear a thick coat when watching the stars at night to keep warm. 🥮 Grassland delicacies | Mid-Autumn special dairy-based mooncakes After enjoying the three-color scenery of the grassland, you must try Xilingol's unique dairy-based mooncakes 🥮. Say goodbye to traditional red bean 🫘 and mixed nuts; kneading grassland dairy into the crust 🫓 is perfect for trying something new on your trip or buying as a souvenir 🌕. 🧀 Milk tofu mooncake | A wonderful collision of sour and milky flavors ✅ Ingredients: Uses local high-quality milk tofu as filling, paired with a flaxseed oil baked crust 🫓. The golden, oily crust wraps around the white milk tofu filling, a clever fusion of grassland dairy and flour. Flaxseed oil gives the crust a unique aroma 👃, and after baking, the crust is crispy and soft, not dry or hard. ✅ Taste: The flour is fragrant, the oil is fragrant, mixed with the faint, slightly sour taste of milk tofu. Sweet but not greasy, not cloying at all. ✅ How to enjoy: 📌 Visit local pastry shops in Xilinhot, and prioritize buying freshly baked ones for the best taste. 📌 Pair with a bowl of salty milk tea, one bite of mooncake, one sip of milk tea 🫋, to unlock the authentic grassland way of eating. 🥛 Milk skin mooncake | The dense milky fragrance hidden in the cake ✅ Ingredients: Milk skin is called "Urum" in Mongolian 🥛. It takes 8 jin of fresh milk to extract 1 jin of milk skin; it is the essence of milk. After high-temperature baking, the milk skin melts and permeates the filling, so there are no large chunks~ ✅ Taste: Soft and glutinous when you bite into it 😋, no obvious grainy texture, full of rich milky fragrance 🥛, tastes like a soft cake. ✅ How to enjoy: 📌 Bring a few when watching the stars at night, eat mooncakes by the bonfire 🥮, and the atmosphere is fully set. 📌 Individually packaged for easy carrying, buy a few boxes after the trip 🛍️ as special souvenirs for friends and family. 💡 Practical travel tips ▪ Flavor reference: If you like refreshing and slightly sour, choose milk tofu mooncakes 🥮; if you prefer rich milky fragrance, choose milk skin mooncakes. 👍 You can try both. ▪ Purchase channels: Prioritize local pastry shops in Xilinhot and regular supermarket specialty counters, 👏 try to choose freshly made products. ▪ Storage tips: Dairy fillings, avoid high temperatures and long storage, keep away from light during the trip, and eat as soon as possible 😜. ▪ Clothing reminder: The temperature difference between day and night in the grassland in autumn is large. Thin coat during the day, be sure to prepare thick clothes for morning and evening 🧥. 🌕 Yellow, blue, and black are the imprints of Xilingol's autumn carved into the mountains and wilderness. Golden grasslands, clear blue skies, and a brilliant starry sky 🌛, paired with special dairy-based mooncakes. Take advantage of the holiday to head to Xilingol, pack the scenery and food into your trip and photo album, and leave behind an unforgettable grassland memory. Images courtesy of Xilingol Culture and Tourism