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

Just had the most amazing day exploring Bandir Blue Lake and the Panlong Ancient Trail! The scenery here is absolutely next-level—seriously, this lake is so blue it looks like a filter IRL. Bandir Blue Lake is famous for its crystal-clear, insanely vibrant water (trust me, your Insta feed NEEDS this). Hot tip: Don’t forget your sunscreen, because the UV here is no joke! We hired a driver, so parking was super easy and just a 5-minute walk to the lake entrance. Chill vibes all around. Next up: the Panlong Ancient Trail. OMG, this spot is packed with legendary history! The name “Panlong” means “coiled dragon”—the trail is literally shaped like one, with dramatic twists. Legend says ancient travelers who go through this path will have smooth path ahead. There are two trails: big and small. Personally, I prefer the big one and it was totally worth it. The curves are wild. But honestly, with views this stunning, you’ll barely notice. Seriously, this is one adventure you gotta add to your travel wish list! #xinxiang #roadtrip #lakes

📍2 Days 1 Night Reverse Route Hankou → Wangmangling → Zhanggou / Xiyagou → Donglian → Xilian → Jiulianshan Grand Canyon → Laolongkou Waterfall → Baligou Scenic Area About the route: 1️⃣Day 1: Hankou → Wangmangling → Zhanggou / Xiyagou (13km, about 6 hours) Features: Steep uphill climb, somewhat physically demanding, take it easy if bringing kids Details: Carpool from Xinxiang Station in the morning, depart at 6:10 AM, start climbing around 7:50 AM. Depart from Hankou, pass through Dishuizhai to Wangmangling. Stayed in Xiyagou (tested and found Xiyagou scenery far better, with a stunning cliff-hanging road). So at the fork towards Zhanggou, head directly towards the Ant Ladder direction to Xiyagou (there is a clear fork, one path goes up, the other down, you can ask the supply station staff). The descent is all stairs, making you question your life choices. 2️⃣Day 2: Zhanggou / Xiyagou → Zhoujiapu → Donglian → Xilian → Jiulianshan Grand Canyon → Laolongkou Waterfall → Baligou Scenic Area (about 40km, around 9 hours) Features: Less climbing, easier paths, mostly cliffside trails. Details: The homestay owner took us to Zhoujiapu. From there to Donglian is all cliffside trails with tree cover, so it’s not too scary. Just watch your step and don’t worry too much. (The narrower sections have been repaired.) Between Donglian and Xilian, you can take a keji ride for 15 RMB per person, saving a lot of walking. ⚠️Important tip: After passing Laolongkou Waterfall, the path gets difficult and walking in the dark is very dangerous. Manage your time well! If bringing kids, start early. About transportation: Before departure: Arrange your car in advance, signal is weak in the mountains, set departure and return times. Return: From Laolongkou down to the scenic service center, you can take a sightseeing bus for 30 RMB per person to the service center. About accommodation: 1️⃣Stay in Zhanggou, a popular choice among hikers 2️⃣Stay in Xiyagou, said to have a better environment than Zhanggou. 3️⃣Stay in Xilian, if you have enough time and energy on the first day, you can walk straight to Xilian, which offers more accommodation and dining options. Notes: 1️⃣Gear: Hiking shoes (non-slip), trekking poles, knee pads, first aid kit, sunscreen, windbreaker (optional), raincoat (bring 2, as branches may tear one) 2️⃣Always respect nature, watch your step, don’t rush, and avoid undeveloped dangerous areas. 3️⃣Check the weather in advance. Avoid entering the mountains if it rains. On the second day, heavy rain made the path slippery, and hikers were advised to turn back by staff. First long-distance hike, suddenly felt the meaning of hiking because you meet many people on the way, walking together, encouraging each other, sharing beautiful views, it feels pure and joyful. Accommodation 🏨Sanshan Laichi・Liuliu Mountain Resident Homestay (Xinxiang South Taihang Baligou Scenic Area Branch) In the heart of Baligou Scenic Area, hidden wild luxury deep in Taihang, infinity pool + camping 🏨Lanmeng Yunqi・Whisper Mountain Resort Homestay (Wangmangling Branch) Core area of Wangmangling, free childcare + media room + picnic area 🏨Shuiquan Yingyue Homestay In Songshuping Village, Shangbali Town, walls made of wood and stone with spring water flowing into the house, outdoor pool for wellness 🏨Yunduo Li Homestay Songshuping Village, Baligou, walking distance to the scenic entrance, convenient transportation

Hi~ I'm Zechenlive✨, a travel lover Have you decided where to go for the May Day holiday? Stop crowding to Yuntai Mountain and Baoquan in Xinxiang!🙅‍♂️ As an outdoor hiking enthusiast who spends the year wandering outdoors💪 This time, I’m recommending a few lesser-known secret spots around Zhengzhou Fewer people, beautiful scenery, and the chance to encounter stunning seas of clouds🌁 It’s truly a paradise for outdoor lovers~ ⛰️ Treasure recommendations: 1️⃣ Avoid the crowds and embrace nature 2️⃣ Mist and clouds swirling like a fairyland 3️⃣ Every shot looks like a masterpiece 4️⃣ Suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers 📸 Photography tips: ✔️ It’s best to set off early in the morning to catch the most beautiful sea of clouds at dawn ✔️ Bring a tripod for stunning time-lapse photography ✔️ Drone shots offer an even more amazing perspective (remember to fly safely) 👟 Gear suggestions: ☑️ Comfortable hiking shoes ☑️ Windproof jacket ☑️ Enough water and snacks ☑️ Sunscreen is a must Come and unlock these lesser-known hiking routes! Before too many people discover them, make your plans now~

Anyang Yinxu 1-Day Walking Tour Guide! A local’s hidden Shang and Zhou dynasty treasure spot🌿 As a travel enthusiast crazy about ancient civilizations, I finally checked in at Yinxu! 🌍 A World Cultural Heritage site + 5A scenic area, also the hometown of oracle bones and the Simuwu Ding. You can visit the new museum, ancestral temple, and royal tomb all in one day, with an amazing experience~ Detailed address and transportation guide: No.1 Yinxu Road, Yindu District, Anyang City, Henan Province📍 Super convenient if you’re not driving! There’s a shuttle bus at the west exit of the new museum, 5 minutes to the palace and ancestral temple ruins🚌 There’s also a scenic area bus from the ancestral temple to the royal tomb, 10 minutes direct, and the combined ticket includes the bus fare, very cost-effective~ For self-driving, navigate to “Yinxu Museum New Hall,” plenty of parking spaces, no worries about parking🚗 Scenic highlights: Head straight to the Yinxu Museum New Hall! Newly opened in 2024 with fewer crowds and a better experience✨ Daytime tickets are 80 RMB, and the first 2,000 visitors at night get in free (if you miss the free tickets, it’s only 40 RMB). Nearly 4,000 cultural relics, three-quarters of which are on display for the first time, are so stunning they leave you speechless!😭 It’s recommended to start from the 3rd floor and go down—bronze ritual vessels, oracle bone fragments, jade ornaments, each piece holds the Shang and Zhou dynasty secrets~ The 1st-floor cultural and creative area is great for shopping, and the coffee is unique too. After walking, having a cup is super relaxing☕ Then visit the palace and ancestral temple ruins; the 50 RMB combined ticket also includes the royal tomb, and you can finish in 2 hours~ Don’t miss Fuhao’s Tomb! The earliest female general’s tomb in China. Although there aren’t many exhibits, standing in front of the tomb pit gives a strong time-travel feeling👩⚔️ The YH127 oracle bone pit is amazing, with over 10,000 oracle bones piled together, truly a miracle of oracle bone studies🔍 Don’t miss the chariot and horse pits or the oracle bone stele forest, perfect for photos~ Finally, visit the royal tomb site, 1 hour is enough! The M260 large tomb is where the Simuwu Ding was found. Standing there and imagining the archaeological scene back then gives you goosebumps🤩 Other useful info: The new museum is open year-round, daytime 8:30-16:30, night tours 17:30-20:30 (arrive early for night tours to avoid queues)⏰ The palace and ancestral temple ruins are open 8:00-17:30 during the day, and night tours from Friday to Sunday cost only 19.9 RMB, very affordable~ The royal tomb site is open 8:30-17:30, no night tours yet🌙 The combined ticket offers the best value, covering the new museum + ancestral temple + royal tomb, much cheaper than buying separately🎫 Tips: Avoid pitfalls, take note!💡 The old museum no longer has exhibits, don’t go there empty-handed~ Many pits at the royal tomb have been backfilled, and the archaeological site is blocked off, so don’t expect too much, but definitely check out the Simuwu Ding discovery site! Don’t use flash photography on relics, wear comfortable flat shoes, so your feet won’t get tired after a day of walking👟 The night tour at the new museum has an amazing atmosphere, with lights shining on the relics, as if traveling back to the Shang dynasty~ In summary, Yinxu is really worth rushing to!📣 You can visit all the core attractions in one day, ancient civilization lovers will be ecstatic~ The address is No.1 Yinxu Road, Yindu District, Anyang City. If you come to Anyang, don’t miss it! Do you prefer visiting museums during the day or at night?

Complete Experience of South Taihang Mountains and Northern Henan Cuisine 📅 Day 1: Wanxianshan · Hanging Road Miracle 🚗 Transportation Suggestions 1.5-hour self-drive from Zhengzhou (navigate directly to "Wanxianshan Scenic Area") Rent a car or carpool after arriving at Xinxiang East High-Speed Rail Station (about 80 RMB/person) ⛰️ Morning: Guoliang Hanging Road 🎫 Ticket: 107 RMB (includes scenic area transportation) ⏰ Recommended duration: 3 hours ✨ Must-try: · Hike the 1.2 km cliff corridor (filming location of the movie "Raise Your Hands") · Panoramic shots at the Cliffside Family Viewing Platform · Shout Fountain challenge for lung capacity 🍜 Lunch: Rustic Mountain Flavors 📍 Recommended: Guoliang Village Wangmangling Farmhouse 🍲 Must-order: Stir-fried mountain chives with native eggs, acorn jelly (about 40 RMB per person) 💦 Afternoon: Nanping Danfen Canyon 🚌 Take the scenic area shuttle to Nanping (20 minutes) 🏞️ Activities: · Trek along the Heilongtan Waterfall Group · Geological wonders of Sun, Moon, and Star Stones · Hiking through the forest sea of Wufeng Mountain (wear sports shoes) 🏡 Accommodation Recommendations · Guoliang Village Homestay (cliffside view room about 200 RMB/night) · Wanxianshan Hotel (quasi three-star standard about 300 RMB/night) 📅 Day 2: Baligou · Northern Water World 🌅 Early Morning: Cliffside Sunrise ⏰ 5:30-6:30 AM watch the sea of clouds sunrise from the homestay rooftop 📸 Photo spot: Tianti Ruins 🚣 Morning: Tianhe Waterfall 🎫 Ticket: 62 RMB (additional 30 RMB for sightseeing bus) ⏰ Core activities: · Bamboo raft through the One-Line Sky gorge (20 RMB/person) · Play in the Red Stone River Emerald Pool · Climb the 888-step Heavenly Ladder challenge (according to your ability) 🐑 Lunch: Xinxiang’s Signature Cuisine 🚗 1-hour drive back to the city 📍 Recommended: Geji Red Braised Lamb (about 60 RMB per person) 🍖 Hidden delicacy: Lamb soup soaked with shredded flatbread 🏯 Afternoon: Choose one between Lu King Mausoleum or Bigan Temple 1️⃣ Lu King Mausoleum (ticket 50 RMB): Ming Dynasty prince’s underground palace + largest wordless stele 2️⃣ Bigan Temple (ticket 40 RMB): Ancestral root site of the Lin family nationwide 🚗 Return Tips Depart before 16:00 to avoid Zhengzhou evening rush hour 💰 Budget Reference (for 2 people) | Item | Cost (RMB) | |------------|-----------------------------| | Transportation | 400 (rental/carpool + fuel) | | Tickets | 338 (Wanxianshan + Baligou) | | Accommodation | 300 (specialty homestay) | | Meals | 300 (including red braised lamb feast) | | Others | 200 (activities + snacks) | | Total | About 1500 | 📌 Local Tips Best season: April to October, with July-August having the fullest waterfalls Packing guide: · Essential non-slip shoes (stones in the canyon are slippery) · Bring a light jacket for temperature changes Avoid pitfalls: · Must buy scenic area shuttle tickets (walking distances are very long) · Be cautious about riding private motorcycles (unsafe) Hidden gems: · Night star gazing at Wanxianshan (low light pollution) · Try Taihang Mountain wild hawthorn juice (5 RMB/bottle) Set off with this guide and discover a different South Taihang! 🏔️

TRIP MUSIC AWARD "Small Town Dreamers"

Living in Shanghai makes you lose touch with the real China. Truth is, many provinces in China are not yet as developed. Henan is such a province-many people still struggle with poverty and arriving there, it felt like I had gone back in time. However, Henan a place with immense historical significance. Henan is often referred to as "The mother of China" because historians say that Chinese civilization originated in this region. During our stay, we visited The Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang, the largest and most impressive collection of Chinese cave carvings from the late Northern Wei and Tang Dynasties. We also visited Shaolin temple, often known as the birthplace of martial arts and Zen Buddhism, and watched masters of kungfu practice their craft. In Henan, I got to see a different side of China, and it has only made me love this country even more. #china #travelinspiration #tripblazers #mytripvlog #travelphotography

At 3:40 PM on July 23, 2026, we drove through South Taihang and passed the music road to reach the Wangjing Pavilion guesthouse in the Xiyagou scenic area, where we stayed that day. We planned to drop off our bags and go admire the cliffside scenery here, but suddenly a heavy downpour started. After waiting for more than an hour and the rain cleared, we first visited the Jiulong waterfall. The Xiyagou scenic area is located in Lingchuan County, Jincheng City, Shanxi Province, at the southern end of the Wangmangling scenic area. It is surrounded by cliffs with nearly a 1,000-meter drop and was once a secluded paradise cut off from the outside world. The Jiulong flying waterfall in Xiyagou is a landmark within the Wangmangling scenic area in Lingchuan County, Jincheng City, Shanxi. It features typical Taihang mountain water scenery. The Longtan flying waterfall is located in the canyon below Longwang Bridge. The stream falls due to the terrain drop, creating a deep and unfathomable "dragon pool." Later, a dam was built upstream, adjusting the waterfall’s position, but the drop became even greater and more spectacular. When the water flow is strong, it sounds like thunder and the mist spreads like white silk pouring down. Getting close, you can feel the coolness from the spray, making it a natural summer retreat. Surrounded by steep cliffs, it is known as the "Taihang water town." travel diarycultural customsmeets beautynotesSouth TaihangTaihang self-driving tourself-driving check-inGrand CanyonTaihang mountain road self-driving touroff-the-beaten-pathTaihang music roadShanxi Taihang mountain tourismroad scenery check-inXiyagou Jiulong flying waterfall

While others flock to popular cities for intense, fast-paced tourism, I choose a few less-known places, reachable within a 2-hour high-speed rail ride or an overnight train. In summer, either hide in the mountains to enjoy the breeze, relax by the water, or explore old town alleys for a bowl of handmade noodles. Escaping the heat, crowds, and high prices, a three-day slow pace is just right. 1. Beijing Do you think Beijing only has the Forbidden City and Great Wall overflowing with tourists? Choose the right way to travel in August, and you can still find peace and quiet in the city. ⏰ Arrive at Temple of Heaven Park at 6:30 AM. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests isn't open yet, so walk around the perimeter first. Elderly people are practicing tai chi, and bird calls are louder than car horns. 📍 Enter from the North Gate, walk south along the long corridor, shaded by pines and cypresses, with almost no one around. 🍜 Exit from the West Gate at 9:00 AM, turn to the "Lao Ciqikou Douzhir Shop" across the street for a bowl of douzhir (fermented mung bean milk) with jiaoquan (fried dough rings)—don't frown, one sip will win you over. ⚠️ The Forbidden City must be booked 7 days in advance. If you enter after 3:00 PM, the slanted sunlight on the Hall of Supreme Harmony Square can make it feel like you have the place to yourself. For the Summer Palace, avoid the East Palace Gate; enter from the North Ruyi Gate, climb the hill to overlook Kunming Lake, and you'll find half the crowds. At Beihai Park, take a sculling boat; the reflection of the White Pagoda is ten times quieter than Shichahai. 2. Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai If you find Chaka Salt Lake too popular, head straight to Qarhan Salt Lake—the second largest in the world, so green it looks like melted emeralds in the water. 📍 It's a one-hour drive from Golmud city. Tickets are half the price of Chaka, and the sightseeing bus takes you directly to the deepest part. ⏰ From 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, the slanted sunlight makes the salt flowers sparkle, and walking on them creates a crunching sound. 🍜 It's recommended to bring your own dry food; the scenic area restaurants are expensive and unappetizing. ⚠️ Don't wear flip-flops; the salt crystals will hurt your feet. Bring a pair of thick socks to wear over your shoes. At the foot of the Kunlun Mountains, there's the Yuzhu Peak observation deck. Around 6:00 AM, prayer flags flutter loudly in the wind, and the snow-capped peaks are tinged with gold. Emerald Lake is even more stunning, with pools of green that look like an artist's palette from a drone—but be aware that cell phone signal is intermittent there, so download an offline map in advance. 3. Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village or Zhaoxing Dong Village, which one to choose? ⏰ Xijiang is suitable for night view enthusiasts. In the evening, the Miao village lights up, and the myriad lights look like stars falling on the mountainside. However, it's too commercialized during the day, with street photography and barbecue stalls everywhere. I honestly don't recommend staying there—I did, and the footsteps upstairs at midnight sounded like drumming. 📍 Zhaoxing Dong Village is more authentic, with old people weaving bamboo baskets under the drum tower and children chasing chickens. 🍜 Oil tea and pickled fish are a must-try, five yuan a bowl, spicy and appetizing. ⚠️ Avoid Zhenyuan Ancient Town on weekends; the alleys along the Wuyang River are narrow, and it's hard to turn around when it's crowded. Xianghuo Rock is not well-known. Climb for half an hour to the bottom of the waterfall, and the mist on your face is as refreshing as natural air conditioning. If you're traveling with elderly people, choose Zhaoxing and Zhenyuan, as they have fewer stairs and more flat paths. 4. Xinxiang | Henan Baquan Tourist Area and Baligou are often compared; one is like a Jiangnan water town, the other like a northern canyon. 📍 You can wade in the shallow waters of Baquan; the water is so clear you can see your toes, perfect for a day trip with family. ⏰ Enter the park at 8:00 AM, take the bus to the innermost part first, then slowly walk out to avoid the afternoon crowds. 🍜 The cold noodles at the stalls outside the entrance are five yuan a serving, much better than the twenty-yuan ones inside the scenic area. ⚠️ Baligou's "Tianhe Waterfall" is only spectacular during the rainy season, and August is just right, but there are many stairs, so those with bad knees should be cautious. I went down to the bottom of the "Yixiantian" (One-Line Sky) that day, and my legs trembled for half an hour—if you're traveling alone, bring a hiking pole. 5. Chongzuo | Guangxi On the left bank of Detian Transnational Waterfall is Vietnam, and on the right bank is Guangxi. Bamboo rafts can go to the foot of the waterfall, where the mist wets your face, making it cool and refreshing. 📍 Mingshi Pastoral is an hour's drive from the waterfall. Rent an electric bike and ride along the greenway; the rice paddies, bamboo forests, and karst peaks look like a landscape painting. ⏰ Go to Mingshi at dusk when the tourists have dispersed, leaving only the quacking of ducks. 🍜 Zuojiang Huashan Rock Paintings are a hidden gem. Take a boat to the rock face, and the red figures from two thousand years ago are still vibrant. The boatman will point them out and say, "Those are people dancing for a sacrifice." ⚠️ Note: You don't need to queue for tickets at Detian Waterfall; booking online one day in advance saves you ten yuan. If you love photography, bring a telephoto lens to capture Vietnamese tourists playing in the water on the opposite bank. 6. Longyan | Fujian The biggest highlight of the Tulou (Yongding) is the "Four Dishes and One Soup" tulou cluster, but don't just focus on Zhencheng Lou. 📍 At Fuyu Lou in Hongkeng Village, climb the creaking wooden stairs, open a window on the second floor, and a vast green field unfolds before you. 🍜 The dried tofu and "dengzhan gao" (lamp-shaped cake) in Changting Ancient City are freshly fried, crispy and crumbly when you bite into them. ⏰ Go to Guanzhishan at noon; the light shines through the rock crevices, and the stairs are scorching hot, but the strong wind at the summit will blow away your sweat. ⚠️ There's not much to see in Longyan city. Stay directly in a guesthouse inside Yongding Tulou, eighty yuan a night, and the landlady makes Hakka stuffed tofu. If you're short on time, choose Tulou and Guanzhishan; Changting can wait for another visit. 7. Wuxi | Jiangsu Nianhua Bay is beautiful for its Zen ambiance, but I recommend entering in the evening—⏰ after 5:00 PM, tour groups leave, bamboo lanterns light up, and the mist system turns on, making it feel like you're in a Miyazaki animation as you walk through the sea of flowers. 📍 Ling Shan Grand Buddha's lotus fountain show runs four times a day. Looking up from the Buddha's feet is worth the neck strain. 🍜 The Aozhao noodles in Huishan Ancient Town have a rich broth that clings to the bowl. Add some chili oil and slurp down a whole bowl. ⚠️ If you're not a film buff, don't go to the CCTV Wuxi Movie/TV Base for Three Kingdoms and Water Margin—tickets are over eighty yuan, and it's just old buildings plus performances. Save your money and take a walk by Taihu Lake instead. I prefer cycling from Lihu Bridge to Yuantouzhu, watching the sunset over the lake along the way. 8. Shaoyang | Hunan Langshan is a Danxia landform, but it's much less known than Danxia Mountain. ⏰ Go after summer rain; mist wraps around the peaks, and Chili Peak stands like a red giant. 📍 Bajiaozhai is the core. It takes an hour to climb to the summit, and the last section is almost vertical, requiring you to pull yourself up with iron chains. 🍜 After descending, go to the town to eat "xuejiang ya" (duck cooked with duck blood); the duck blood coats the tender meat, making it deliciously spicy. ⚠️ Don't take the cable car; it's an hour's wait, while walking up takes only about 20 minutes—I made that mistake. If you're with children, take the Camel Peak plank road; it's gentle and offers great views. Finally, a practical note: Among these eight places, my personal favorites are the salt lakes of Haixi and the Dong villages of Qiandongnan—one is extremely vast, the other full of life. The confidence to travel in August comes from not having to compete with anyone for a good photo spot. Where have you been recently? Share in the comments; I'm looking for new recommendations.

Everyone says summer vacation is a celebration for the travel industry, but the celebration usually belongs only to those cities that are always crowded. From August to September, I specifically choose less popular small towns within a 2- to 5-hour high-speed train ride. Without the crowds, I encounter the true seasonal beauty. The fewer the people, the more direct the experience. Each of these eight cities makes me want to stay for a bowl of noodles, a mountain, or a river. 01 Shaoguan | Guangdong Shaoguan is the kind of city that makes you take a deep breath as soon as you get off the train. The air carries the damp scent of earth, and the southern summer heat is mostly absorbed by the stones and trees. Danxia Mountain is a place whose name alone evokes colorful imagery. 🌄 Don’t trust those rushed three-day tour packages. I recommend spending at least half a day on Yangyuan Rock and Elder Peak. I gave up halfway on the Yin Yuan Rock trail—the steps are too steep and slippery. After 5 PM, the setting sun slants across the sunburned rock walls, making the whole mountain seem to glow. ⏰ After descending, don’t go far. At the entrance of the scenic area, a local farmhouse will stir up a simple stir-fry of wild vegetables. The seasoning is basic, but the vegetables taste sweet. 🚄 It takes about half an hour by taxi from Shaoguan Station to Danxia Mountain. The fare is just over 60 yuan. 02 Haidong | Qinghai Haidong is a gateway to Tibet that many miss. The altitude isn’t high, but the air is so clean you can smell the melting snow from distant mountains. The Huzhu Tu Ethnic Homeland Park is a place you can spend a whole morning. The park is small, but walking through it, the carved wooden old buildings and lilac trees in the courtyard all carry a quiet calmness stirred by the breeze. 🍜 For lunch, find a small shop outside the park to try the Tu ethnic big bread. The crust is crispy and charred, while the inside is soft and stretchy. Youning Temple is hidden in a mountain hollow. The climb is long, so take it slow. ⏰ The best light is around 2 or 3 PM when the golden roof reflects sunlight, making the whole temple shine. ⚠️ Don’t wear a short skirt inside the Buddha hall. It’s not about etiquette but the strong wind that will make it hard to stand steady. 03 Xuancheng | Anhui Xuancheng is a place where you dare not speak loudly, afraid of breaking the quiet harmony between the stone paths and the creek. Chaji Ancient Village and Hongcun Xidi are different styles. Xuancheng is more relaxed and natural. ⏰ At 5:40 AM, the stone paths still reflect light, dew clings to pant legs, no tourists are around, only a few elders washing vegetables by the creek. The water sounds crisp and clear. 🍜 To catch the noon aroma of Chaji Ancient Village’s food, you have to wait in the alley—once the oil sizzles, the roasted tofu’s fragrance drifts out. Jixi Longchuan’s Water Street is more layered, with water flowing beneath houses. You might wonder if you’re standing on a bridge or inside a painting. ⚠️ For photos, avoid the official scenic viewpoint. The real angle is under the old locust tree in front of the Hu family ancestral hall. 04 Hohhot | Inner Mongolia Hohhot is a city mixed with grassland and Yellow River soil. The Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon Scenic Area sounds wild just by name. 📍 After 4 PM at Laoniuwan, the light and shadows stretch, and the layered colors of the Yellow River and canyon are most distinct. ⏰ Half an hour before sunset is the best time to capture the water ripples. ⚠️ Don’t just stand on the riverbank. Climb the viewing platform. The river bend looks like a giant crack in the earth, stunning beyond words. The Chilechuan Grassland Cultural Tourism Area is a vast spread of green. In July and August, the grass is short but dense. The wind feels like a breath rising from the ground. 🍜 Buy a bag of yogurt on the way. It’s thick like ice cream, sweet and sour. 🚄 Renting a car from the city to Laoniuwan takes about two hours. Splitting the fare and fuel, it costs no more than 80 yuan per person. 05 Weifang | Shandong Weifang is a city that has slow culture ingrained in its bones. Qingzhou Ancient City Scenic Area isn’t like those ancient cities swallowed by commercialism. Its east gate is bustling with kite and bead stalls lined up side by side, but the west gate is so empty you could practice tai chi. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM. The shops on the street are lazily half-open, and you can hear wooden door panels being taken down one by one. 🍜 If you must, try the century-old Longsheng pastry shop. Their bread and cakes are sweet and dense, perfect with a pot of tea to nibble slowly. 🏛️ Under the city wall is a small courtyard with an old man doing calligraphy. He charges two yuan per character. I stood there watching him write all morning. 06 Nantong | Jiangsu Nantong is a city softened by the Yangtze River. The Hao River is its soul. During the day, the water sparkles, but the best experience is ⏰ after 6:30 PM. The summer evening breeze spreads over the river, willow branches dip into the water, reflecting the streetlights. 🍜 You must visit the “Siyi Cake Shop” by the river. Their osmanthus cake and green rice balls are freshly made. Bite into a green rice ball, and the aroma of lard and red bean paste wafts out half a meter. 📍 Walk through the old alleys of Xinan Ying to reach Bell Tower Square. Along the way, the peeling walls of old houses reveal brick red and gray-brown colors. ⚠️ If you want to take a river cruise on a painted boat, choose the last departure. Fewer people, and when the lights come on, the water looks like scattered gold. 07 Ganzi | Sichuan Ganzi is a place that often appears in your dreams because it’s so vast, so far, and so magnificent. Xinduqiao is a photographer’s light meter. ⏰ Around 8 or 9 AM, the light rolls down the hillside, flowing over meadows and Tibetan houses. Mugecuo’s water is unrealistically blue. 🍜 The lakeside stalls sell roasted yak meat. The meat is tough but full of charcoal aroma. Daocheng Yading is the main mission. The altitude is high, and the trek through Luorong Pasture leaves your legs weak, but the green of Milk Lake makes you forget all pain. ⚠️ Don’t believe locals who say “riding a horse is easy.” Horses only go halfway. The last 2 kilometers you have to climb the muddy slope yourself. The Hailuogou glacier is a surprise. ⏰ After 2 PM, the clouds clear, revealing the glacier’s blue tongue. 08 Xinxiang | Henan Xinxiang is a place that gives weight to the word “Central Plains.” Baoquan Scenic Area is known for its water. ⏰ Before 10 AM, the pond water hasn’t been warmed by the sun. It’s as green as jade. Step in, and the cold will make you quietly gasp. 🍜 At the entrance, there’s a stall selling fried river shrimp. Freshly caught, fried until the shells are crispy, sprinkled with salt, so delicious you’ll want to take some home. Baligou is another world. The canyon is dark, and the waterfall’s roar drowns out nearby voices. 📍 At the base of Tianhe Waterfall, the mist wets your whole face, and the chill seeps from your lungs outward. ⚠️ Think carefully before climbing the Heavenly Ladder—more than 400 steps, a 90-degree vertical climb. Shaking legs are normal. The last 20 days of July and the first days of August are the most comfortable window to visit these places. High-speed train tickets range from about 100 to 300 yuan. There are few people and no crowded sights, perfect for breaking your trip into pieces and relaxing wherever you feel comfortable. Share in the comments which place you most want to relax in.

Who hasn’t discovered this stunning summer resort yet? 💦 Tucked away in Huixian, Xinxiang, Henan, is a paradise called Qi Wang Zhai Few people, beautiful scenery, and the film "Raise Your Hands" was shot right here! 🎬 ✨ Highlights: ▫️ The breathtaking Hongyan Canyon ▫️ Thrilling self-drive on the cliffside road 🚗 ▫️ Must-visit cliff bow viewing platform ▫️ Secluded waterfall with very few visitors Completely different from those popular spots A large cartoon-themed iced drink fits perfectly here Every snapshot looks like a masterpiece 📸 Only lesser-known spots have that authentic vibe Hurry before more people find out! Avoid crowded tourist attractions And enjoy the whole summer here in peace~⛱️

📍Location: Deep in the Taihang Mountains of Huixian, Xinxiang, Henan, part of the southern Taihang range. The green, winding canyon reservoir in your photos is the core attraction of Baoquan ⏰Hours: 7:30 AM–6:00 PM. Longer hours in summer 🎫Tickets: Adult all-access pass includes shuttle bus. Cheaper if purchased online in advance. Discounts available for students and seniors 2. Best time to visit 1. March–April (spring flower sea) The park’s million-tulip flower sea colors the valley vibrantly. This is Baoquan’s signature highlight. Comfortable temperatures make it ideal for hiking. 2. June–August (summer cool down) The canyon streams are refreshing, with abundant waterfalls cascading from high cliffs. The green mountain pools in your photos are perfect for water play and stream trekking. 3. September–October (autumn scenery) Red leaves on the Taihang cliffs contrast with the green river below. Fewer visitors and peaceful atmosphere. Aerial shots of the canyon’s big bend are especially stunning. 3. Must-visit spots (matching your puzzle canyon big bend) 1. Baoquan big bend (main viewing platform) Overlook the green river winding around the mountains from above. This is the shooting spot for your four photos. The highest viewing platform in the park, fully open with no obstructions. Best for photos, with soft morning light and beautiful reflections. 2. Shuanglong waterfall and Yunu waterfall Taihang spring waterfalls with spectacular summer water flow. Walkways allow close-up views. The valley mist cools the air comfortably. 3. Tulip flower sea terraces Spring only. Layered flower fields backed by green mountains, paired with a clear lake for a strong atmosphere. 4. Green water and red mountain trail Walk slowly along the canyon’s waterside boardwalk. Experience the green lake and red rock cliffs up close. Several shallow spots along the way are perfect for wading. 5. Cliffside trail Suspended walkway halfway up the mountain. Eye-level views of the canyon bend and the red rock cliffs of Taihang. 4. Easy one-day itinerary Park entrance shuttle → flower terraces (spring) / waterside trail (summer) → multi-level waterfalls → high-altitude viewing platform (for big bend panorama) → cliffside walkway → return down the mountain 3–4 hours walking total, moderate difficulty, suitable for seniors and children. 5. Transportation 1. Self-drive (recommended) 40 minutes from Xinxiang city center. Large free parking available at the park. 1.5 hours direct from Zhengzhou. 2. Public transport Take a bus from Xinxiang bus station to Huixian, then transfer to a rural bus to Baoquan park entrance. 6. Food & lodging 1. Farmhouse restaurant at park entrance: Taihang home-style dishes, including stir-fried mountain chives with eggs, stewed native chicken, whole-grain steamed buns, and wild vegetables. Great value. 2. Lodging: Day trips possible. For a deeper experience, stay at a farmhouse at the mountain base. Affordable prices and stunning early morning valley mist views. 7. Practical tips 1. Canyon waterside paths are slippery. Wear non-slip sports shoes. Bring sandals and a change of clothes for water activities in summer. 2. The mountaintop viewing platform is windy. Bring a light jacket in spring and fall. Use sun protection in summer. 3. The viewing platform is crowded on holidays. Arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds. 4. Protect the water source. Do not litter in the green river. The pools are fed by Taihang spring water.

Everyone says popular cities are overcrowded, but some places are like fine wine hidden in quiet alleys. I checked a few tickets and found that within a 2-hour high-speed train or 3-hour flight radius, there are seriously underrated treasures—their autumn colors are richer than Xiangshan, desert light and shadow rival Morocco, and the chanting in ancient temples can calm your whole being. Best of all, prices are affordable and crowds are light! Which one to pick? It depends on your taste. 01 Xinxiang | Henan ⏰ At 6:30 AM, the fog at the foot of the South Taihang Mountains hasn’t lifted yet, but the cliffs of Wanxian Mountain are already touched by the first golden light. It’s best to be on the viewing platform in Guoliang Village at that moment, listening to roosters crowing behind you while the outline of the cliff-hanging road slowly comes into view. 🍜 After descending, stop by “Old Xingjia Lamb Soup” (mid-section of Jianshe Road) in Huixian city. A hot bowl of soup with a baked flatbread is quick and satisfying. ⚠️ Note: The glass walkway at Baoquan gets crowded after 10 AM. It’s best to arrive before 9 AM so you can have the whole canyon to yourself. Save your energy in the afternoon for the waterfall clusters at Bali Valley. After climbing those steps, your legs will feel like they don’t belong to you—but it’s worth it. 02 Ordos | Inner Mongolia If you’re traveling with elders or kids, I recommend heading straight to the Genghis Khan Mausoleum tourist area, but don’t just stay around the main hall. ⏰ At 4 PM, when tour buses start leaving, walk out from the side hall to the Sulde altar behind. The wind blows across the grasslands, making the prayer flags flutter—that’s the real awe-inspiring moment. 🚄 It takes about 50 minutes by taxi from Ordos Station to the mausoleum area, costing around 100 yuan. If you’re traveling solo or with friends, head straight to Xiangshawan at dusk on day one. 📍 Don’t take the sightseeing train. Walk the trail into the Lotus Resort instead, with the sound of flowing sand underfoot. 🍜 At night, try a bowl of yogurt mixed with fried rice at the Mongolian food stall near the park entrance. It’s sweet, sour, and refreshing—perfect to cut through the richness. ⚠️ Sunscreen and sunglasses are a must. The desert sun is no joke, even in October it’s glaring. 03 Bazhong | Sichuan The most beautiful time at Guangwu Mountain is a rainy evening in mid to late October. Enter from the Daba scenic area entrance, but don’t rush onto the sightseeing bus. Head left toward “Black Bear Valley.” There’s a moss-covered stone path there, with larches turning yellow on both sides. When the wind blows, fine pine needles fall like golden dust. ⏰ After about 20 minutes, you’ll reach the first small waterfall. The sound of water drowns out all the visitors’ noise. ⚠️ A reminder: wear non-slip hiking shoes. Those stones have been worn smooth by water for hundreds of years and are slippery enough to make you split your legs in public. 🍜 After descending, go to “Guangwu Mountain Local Cuisine” in Nanjiang County. Order a pot of smoked pork ribs stewed with bamboo shoots. The broth is so rich it clings to your spoon. One slurp warms you all over. 04 Jiuquan | Gansu Here I have two sets of recommendations. If you only have two or three days, focus on Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake: ⏰ Climb the sand dune at 5 PM and wait for the lights to come on at Crescent Lake. The sand ridge is outlined in gold by the sunset. 🍜 At night, go to “Shun Zhang Huang Noodle Shop” at the Dunhuang night market for a bowl of donkey meat yellow noodles. The noodles are chewy, and the meat is flavorful without being greasy. ⚠️ Tickets for the Mogao Caves must be booked at least a week in advance, especially in peak season. If you have five or more days, extend your trip: visit Mogao Caves in the morning, then head straight to the Yumen Pass ruins in the afternoon. The rammed earth walls on the barren plains whistle in the wind, telling stories from a thousand years ago. The next day, go to Yadan National Geological Park and take an off-road vehicle deep into the park. The wind-eroded earth forests glow red under the setting sun. 📍 These spots are about a day’s trip from the city by private car, costing around 600 yuan. Carpooling is recommended to share the cost. 05 Qingdao | Shandong Don’t just rush to the crowded Zhanqiao Pier when you think of Qingdao. Here’s a local route: go to Laoshan Mountain in the morning, but enter through the Yangkou entrance instead of Taiqing Palace. After climbing Mitian Cave, you’ll find a nearly deserted seaside boardwalk, with waves crashing on one side and tea gardens on the mountain on the other. ⏰ Around 2 PM when you descend, stop in Wanggezhuang town to buy a bag of freshly steamed big buns, fragrant and warm. 🍜 In the evening, head back to the city. The Zhanqiao Pier is so crowded you can barely move. I suggest going to Xiaomai Island Park instead. Find a grassy slope to sit on and watch the sun slowly sink below the sea, with a can of Tsingtao beer in hand. ⚠️ If driving, avoid the Olympic Sailing Center area. Parking is limited and roads are narrow. 06 Wuxi | Jiangsu For a mix of everyday life and Zen, Wuxi is my top pick. 📍 Arrive at Huishan Ancient Town before 9 AM. Don’t walk the main street; turn into the “Shanghetang” alley on the right. The mossy stone path is flanked by old houses where elderly women sit shelling peas. ⏰ After exploring the town around 11 AM, head straight to the Lingshan Grand Buddha. I don’t want to sound mystical—but when you stand at the Buddha’s feet and look up, you’ll naturally feel calm. 🍜 For lunch, try a bowl of Luohan noodles at the nearby “Lingshan Vegetarian Restaurant.” The broth made from shiitake mushrooms and bamboo shoots is so fresh it’s almost unbelievable. In the afternoon, visit Nianhuawan. Don’t just take photos—turn into the “Luming Valley” tea house area, order a pot of Biluochun tea, and listen to the wind chimes ringing in the breeze. ⚠️ I find the Three Kingdoms and Water Margin film sets average. Unless you’re a fan, you can skip it if short on time. 07 Nyingchi | Tibet Nyingchi’s beauty needs no filter, but there’s a right way to explore it. If you like deep hiking, start from Bomi and head to the “Gang spruce forest.” The ancient forest is full of spruces thick enough to hug, with soft fallen leaves and moss underfoot. ⏰ At 6:30 AM, before the sun crosses the ridge, you can hear avalanches rumbling in the distance—don’t worry, it’s normal seasonal activity. 🍜 When tired, find a “Tibetan family feast” in Bomi town and order hand-sized ginseng chicken stew. The chicken is tender, and the broth has a sweet herbal flavor. If you’re short on time and want a highlight, head straight to “Suosong Village” in the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon. Sit on the guesthouse terrace and watch Namjagbarwa Peak’s sharp summit appear and disappear in the clouds. ⚠️ If driving the Yunnan-Tibet route, watch for icy roads after mid-October and bring snow chains. 08 Anshan | Liaoning If you want a weekend walk that’s not tiring, Qianshan is an excellent choice. 📍 Don’t enter through the main gate. Use the side entrance near “Wuliang Temple.” The stone steps are even and gently sloped, with several ancient temples built on the cliffs along the way. ⏰ It takes about 1.5 hours to reach “Tian Shang Tian.” From there, you can overlook the surrounding mountains spreading out like lotus petals. 🍜 After descending, go to “Old Han’s Korean BBQ” in Tiedong District (Wenhua Street). The lamb skewers sizzle with oil, sprinkled with cumin and chili powder. Pair them with a bowl of cold noodles for a refreshing meal. ⚠️ If you have knee issues, take the sightseeing bus to Wufoding, then walk a short flat path to the summit. It saves a lot of effort. The surprises scattered across these eight small cities don’t require searching. Turn a corner, get up early, or take a different entrance, and they’ll appear. Tell us in the comments—which city do you want to visit first?

💡Travel tips: Xinxiang’s downtown hides the 700-year-old Yuan dynasty Guan Di Temple ✅Free admission throughout, no ticket required ✅Open as usual on Monday, no need to worry about missing out Pair it with Qishi Tongju Lane and the Confucian Temple for a check-in The three spots are close to each other, perfect for planning a half-day tour of the old town 📸Photo tips: Soft light and fewer visitors from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM make it easier to get great shots After visiting the ancient buildings, a short bike ride of about 10 minutes takes you to Pangdonglai, blending cultural heritage with city life for a seamless itinerary

Don’t just think of Yunnan and Guizhou when it comes to summer escapes. Within a 2-hour high-speed rail radius, there are many underrated natural air-conditioned spots. Sea breeze, mountain streams, grasslands, cave tunnels… August is just the right time to visit. The crowds are light, the views are uncrowded, and the temperature is perfect for a light jacket. 01 Dalian | Liaoning 📍 Want to enjoy the sea breeze without feeling like you’re in a sauna? Trust me and head straight to Tangli Lake Park. Go after 4 PM. The lake surface is broken into scattered light by tree shadows. Walking along the boardwalk, the perceived temperature is at least 5 degrees cooler than downtown. ⚠️ Don’t wait foolishly by the popular tree at the main entrance. Walk 300 meters inside. There are several wooden platforms facing the lake island. It’s less crowded and breezier there, perfect for sitting all afternoon. 🍜 After leaving the park, don’t rush to take a taxi. There’s a local bus at the entrance. Take it for three stops to “Qiancheng Street.” The small restaurants there don’t have lit signs, but order a bowl of kidney bean and clam noodles. The broth is so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows jump. 🚄 It takes only 50 minutes by light rail from Dalian Station to Jinshitan, but remember to take an early train. Arrive before 9 AM and head straight to the geological park. By 11 AM, when tour groups arrive, you’ll have already finished the highlights and can leisurely relax in the shade at Golden Coast. 02 Xi’an | Shaanxi Known as a “big furnace,” Xi’an is indeed scorching during the day in August, but only staying indoors would be a big loss. Here’s a “stay cool by day, go out by night” plan that’s refreshing and authentic. ⏰ At 7:30 AM, before the city wall gets baked, start at Changle Gate. Rent a bike and ride toward South Gate. More locals jogging than tourists are on this route. The wind through the battlements passes over greenery and moist asphalt, feeling cool. 🍜 At the hottest time around noon, duck into “Chengxin Hulu Tou” inside Small South Gate. Don’t be fooled by the name. This is a local favorite for paomo (crumbled flatbread in mutton stew) since childhood. One bowl cools you down even as you sweat. ⚠️ Avoid the main street of Muslim Quarter. Turn into nearby Sajinqiao. The line at Old Ma’s beef pancake is short. The crust is crispy, the filling generous, and the owner is very friendly. 📍 At 3 PM, when the sun starts to tilt west, visit the ancient Guanyin Zen Temple at the foot of Qinling Zhongnan Mountain. The ginkgo tree planted by Emperor Li Shimin is lush green. Sitting under it, you can hear the wind rustling through the leaves. ⚠️ Note that the temple has many mosquitoes. Remember to bring insect repellent. 03 Xinxiang | Henan A hidden summer escape in central Henan, focusing on “valley exploration.” 📍 Baoquan Tourist Area is divided into Cliffside and Grand Canyon. Trust me, take the Grand Canyon route. Enter the valley before 10 AM when the water is still cool. Step on stones in the stream and walk upstream. Above is dense shade, below is a shallow pool just covering your ankles. 📌 At the “Jianlong Waterfall” section, mist sprays out dozens of meters. Standing underneath for three minutes chills your whole body. 🍜 After Baoquan, drive half an hour to Bobi Town. By the roadside is “Old Stone Mill Tofu Shop.” The owner grinds soy milk himself. A bowl costs 2 yuan. Pair it with freshly made vegetable flatbread. It’s more refreshing than any dessert in the city. ⚠️ Bailigou is better for the next day. Arrive at 6:30 AM when it opens and head straight to “Tianhe Waterfall.” At that time, the light isn’t direct. The water curtain cave behind the waterfall is empty and walkable. Cool air rises from the ground. By 9 AM, when tour groups arrive, you’ll already be refreshed. 04 Hulunbuir | Inner Mongolia In August, the Hulunbuir grassland is around 20 degrees during the day and you might need a windbreaker at night. ⏰ At 3 PM, the sunlight on the grassland starts to slant but still feels warm. Find a horse ranch run by herders. Don’t take the one- or two-hour riding packages—they’re too rushed. Choose the experience of “riding to the river to drink water.” The horse will go downhill on its own, and you’ll suddenly see the entire blue-green Morigele River winding through the meadow. 🍜 At 6 PM, go to “Mongolian Fate Restaurant” in Erguna city. The hand-pulled meat is freshly cooked. Dip it in chive flowers. The sweetness of the lamb and the fragrance of the grass explode in your mouth. ⚠️ Don’t order too much. Two pounds of meat and one yogurt pancake are enough for three girls to be full. 📍 If you want to see the stars, don’t stay in town hotels. Drive half an hour toward Heishantou. There’s a Mongolian yurt camp deep in the grassland. At 2 AM, step outside and the Milky Way stretches right above you. If it weren’t so cold, I could watch all night. 05 Guyuan | Ningxia Ningxia’s most underrated summer escape is hidden in the Xumishan caves. ⚠️ First thing: don’t go at noon! At 2 PM, the sun shines directly, making the Buddha statues inside the caves dazzling. Enter right when it opens at 8:30 AM and head straight to Cave 5, the “Great Buddha Hall.” The coolness hits instantly, like walking into a natural ice cellar. The cave temperature is at least 8 degrees lower than outside. Stay long enough and you’ll need a jacket. 📍 After the caves, don’t rush off. Walk 500 meters behind the mountain to an abandoned terraced field viewing platform. Standing there, you can see the wind pushing clouds across the valley. That vastness makes summer feel no big deal. 🚄 It’s about an hour’s drive from Guyuan city. The poplar shade along the way is dense and the road is good. Renting a car is recommended. Half a day is enough, and you can wander the old alleys in town in the afternoon. 06 Leshan | Sichuan Mount Emei and Leshan Giant Buddha are both cooler in August but offer very different experiences. First, Mount Emei. ⏰ The sunrise at Golden Summit is at 5 AM, but going alone isn’t worth it. If it’s just one or two people, I recommend hiking from Baoguo Temple at the foot of the mountain at 10 AM. Walk to the “Qingyin Pavilion” section. The sound of the stream is loud enough to drown out voices. The air is full of negative ions, cool and refreshing, no need to wipe sweat. 🍜 When you reach the “Wannian Temple” parking lot, don’t eat the cold jelly sold by vendors. Walk 200 meters further to “Changqing Restaurant.” The owner cooks fresh fish for spicy fish. It’s fragrant and goes perfectly with rice. The average cost is under 40 yuan. You’ll say, “This is really Leshan.” Now, the Leshan Giant Buddha. ⚠️ Don’t queue at the main entrance to go down the plank road! At 2 PM, the sun is scorching and the wait can be two hours. Smart travelers take the boat. Board at Wuyou Temple dock. Boats run every 20 minutes and go right in front of the Buddha’s feet. You’ll realize the view from the river is much more impressive than standing at its toes. Plus, there’s a breeze the whole time, making it cooler. 07 Dali | Yunnan August in Dali is just the end of the rainy season but also the most beautiful time on the west side of Erhai Lake. ⚠️ Avoid the main street of Xizhou Ancient Town. It’s crowded and full of Yiwu trinket sellers. Instead, go to the ecological corridor east of Xizhou Ancient Town. Rent an electric bike and ride along the S-shaped bay by Erhai Lake. Around 4 PM, the sun is half blocked by Cangshan Mountain. The light perfectly turns Erhai Lake a pale blue. You’ll pass a sunflower field, bright yellow and unguarded. You can stop, sit on the ridge, and watch the wind rustle the petals. 📍 If you want to see the Three Pagodas, don’t enter Chongsheng Temple Scenic Area. The “Three Pagodas Reflection Park” outside the scenic area is the right way to experience it. The ticket is cheap, the crowd is light, and at dusk, the pagodas’ shadows fall perfectly on the pond. With the sunset, it’s even more stunning than inside. 🍜 If you stay on Nanzhao Style Island at night, don’t eat there. Take the ferry back to Shuanglang Town. At the town entrance is “Grandma’s fried potatoes.” Five yuan a serving. Crispy outside, soft inside, sprinkled with chili powder. It’s best eaten while walking. 08 Meizhou | Guangdong The “green lung” in Guangdong’s inland, Yannanfei Tea Plantation is the hidden boss of August escapes. 📍 It’s a 1.5-hour drive from Meizhou city. The moment you enter the mountain, the temperature outside the window drops at least 5 degrees. The tea gardens look like green waves. When the wind blows, the whole area smells of tea. ⚠️ The best time is before 10 AM. Follow the tea garden boardwalk to the highest point, “Tea Love Pavilion.” There’s a large viewing platform overlooking the entire valley. The morning mist hasn’t cleared, and the tea ridges appear faint in the fog. The coolness seeps from your feet to your head. Don’t wait until after 10 AM. Once the sun is up, even the best views feel too hot. 🍜 At the tea garden entrance is a “Hakka home-style restaurant.” The signature is stone clam soup. The broth is milky white with herbal fragrance. One sip cools you from throat to stomach. ⚠️ If driving, don’t park in the spots right at the entrance. Drive 200 meters further for a shaded free parking spot. A few extra steps are worth the coolness. August is here. Instead of scrolling on your phone in an air-conditioned room, pick a place to feel the breeze and splash in the water. Want to know which one is the best first stop? Message me and I’ll help you choose. gems Tianhe Waterfall

Who says a small budget means sacrificing experience? These 8 places—from deserts to islands, mountains to ancient towns—are all reachable by high-speed train or discounted flights. Each offers a wilder adventure than the last. 1️⃣ Zhongwei | Ningxia The first time you see a desert and the Yellow River side by side. Arrive early at Gaomiao Bao’an Temple—before 9 AM, the mix of incense and morning light under the eaves feels eerie yet solemn. Shapotou is most comfortable after 3 PM; the sand won’t burn your feet, and you can catch the Yellow River sunset at dusk. ⚠️ If you only want desert activities, don’t buy the package that includes the Yellow River area. It’s cheaper to buy sand sliding and sheepskin raft rides separately. 🍜 At the city’s old Gulou Alley entrance, the stir-fried pulled noodles cost 8 yuan and fill you up. 2️⃣ Baoting | Hainan Skip the crowded beaches of Sanya. The rainforest in Baoting is the perfect way to enjoy autumn. At 10 AM in Betel Nut Valley, watch a Li grandmother weave Li brocade live. Sitting there for half an hour is more calming than visiting ten malls. Yanoda Scenic Area has a dedicated waterfall trekking and water play route. A pair of water shoes is enough. The whole trip takes about 2 hours, and the water is just the right coolness. 🚄 It’s only a half-hour intercity train ride from Sanya Station to Baoting. The money saved on lodging can cover two meals of five-legged pig. 3️⃣ Tangshan | Hebei Qingdongling is seriously underrated. Walk to the end of the Spirit Way lined with stone statues. In the afternoon light, the glazed tiles of the Xiaoling Mausoleum glow golden, and no one competes for your photo spot. The music fountain at Nanhu·Kailuan at 8 PM is a must-see, but don’t sit in the middle of the square. The east-side steps are less crowded and offer lake reflections for photos. 🍜 The meat-filled chessboard biscuits at Tangshan Banquet taste better than the red bean ones. 4️⃣ Xinxiang | Henan At Baoquan Tourist Area, the emerald water and red cliffs are best seen the day after rain. The water carries fine sand and looks like jade. In contrast, Bali Valley needs a sunny day. The waterfall shines through the sunlight, and you can see tiny rainbows in the mist. ⚠️ Don’t bring strollers to either place. The many steps will make you question your life choices. A waist bag is the easiest option. 🍜 Don’t buy the cold noodles at the scenic area entrance. Locals say they’re thickened with starch. 5️⃣ Urumqi | Xinjiang The naan at the International Grand Bazaar smells best fresh out of the oven. But don’t buy the oversized photo prop naan. The palm-sized sesame-filled ones are the real treat. Visit Hongguang Mountain at dusk. You don’t have to hike all the way up—drive to the mid-mountain viewing platform. The city lights just come on, and the cool breeze carries the scent of grilled meat. The windmill fields in Dabancheng can be seen from the roadside, saving you the ticket fee to enjoy spicy chicken at Chaiwopu. ⚠️ Nuts and dried fruits at the bazaar cost 30% more than in supermarkets. It’s best to browse only. 6️⃣ Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan The best way to enjoy Puzhehei isn’t by boat but by climbing Qinglong Mountain in the dark at 6 AM. When the morning mist clears, the lake reflects the karst peaks. That moment shows you what a “fairyland” really means. 🍜 The fried small fish at the entrance of Xianrendong Village are freshly caught and fried, crispy enough to chew the bones. 🚄 It’s just over an hour by high-speed train from Kunming South Station to Puzhehei Station, ten times less hassle than driving. 7️⃣ Shangluo | Shaanxi The cool air at the bottom of Jinsi Gorge makes you forget it’s 30 degrees outside. The full hike takes about 3 hours, so bring a light jacket. The plank road at Tianshu Gorge hangs in midair—those afraid of heights should be cautious. Manchuan Pass Ancient Town preserves old Ming and Qing dynasty theaters. On sunny afternoons, sunlight streams through the courtyard and hits the bluestone pavement, undisturbed by crowds. ⚠️ The ginkgo trees at Baita Temple don’t turn fully yellow until late October. Don’t go too early. 🍜 The town’s potato rice cakes have a texture like rice cake mixed with mashed potatoes. They taste best dipped in chili sauce. 8️⃣ Lhasa | Tibet At Namtso, don’t join a one-day tour—you’ll miss the golden mountain at dusk. Arrange a carpool and stay overnight on Zhaxi Peninsula. The starry sky is truly breathtaking. Booking the Potala Palace requires snagging a slot after 2 PM. The slanting light hits the white walls, and the golden roof of the Red Palace shines like it’s fake. Watching people prostrate at Jokhang Temple’s entrance for 10 minutes will leave you speechless. 🍜 At Guangming Port Qiong Sweet Tea House on Barkhor Street, a bowl of Tibetan noodles costs 6 yuan. Paired with a pot of sweet tea, you can sit there all afternoon. Which of these 8 places fits your current budget and holiday best? Share in the comments—you might find a travel buddy.

This summer, Henan’s cultural tourism market continues to heat up — hotel bookings are up 89% year over year, attraction ticket bookings are up 75%, with Luoyang, Kaifeng, and Xinxiang leading the province in booking growth. From the Taihang Gorge to the foot of the Funiu Mountains, from the banks of the Yellow River to both sides of the Shali River, Central China invites you to enjoy a summer of mountain and water escapes, theme parks, and cultural night tours! 🏞️ Mountain forest escapes · natural air conditioning Jiaozuo Yuntai Mountain: deep gorges and connected pools and waterfalls, with an average summer temperature of just 25℃. The 2026 Yuntai Mountain water play season is in full swing. The tropical rainforest water play pool in Xiazhaigou and the giant water spray device are open all day. Hourly water fights invite everyone to join, with free water guns and basins. Nearby Lemon Town features giant lemon sculptures and fairy-tale wooden houses set against green hills and streams, perfect for photos. At night, the “Yuntai bright moon flame” lights up the sky, and the large-scale live show “The Legend of Ningyi in Fengshen” amazes audiences, with dazzling intangible cultural heritage iron flower performances. The park is equipped with a mist system and free ice points throughout, handing out refreshing watermelon along the way. Luoyang Funiu Mountain: Luoyang’s rural cultural tourism season offers themed routes like “Enjoy a summer escape in Funiu Mountain” and “Explore the ancient Yellow River capital.” Luanchuan Wangfu Bamboo Sea is recognized as a national forest summer climate resort, with 10,000 acres of bamboo forests, layered waterfalls, and clear springs, maintaining an average summer temperature of only 21–22℃. Yangzigou is also listed as a national premium summer resort area, with lush vegetation and intersecting valleys. Xinxiang South Taihang: Baoquan Grand Canyon has a 98% forest coverage rate and an average summer temperature of just 22℃. Baligou offers a cool canyon experience, and the Peach Blossom Bay shallow water play trail is fully open. 💦 Water fun · rafting and parks Canyon rafting: Lushan County boasts 7 rafting rivers totaling over 43 kilometers. Yaoshan Grand Canyon rafting can host up to 15,000 visitors in a single day. This summer introduces “starlight night rafting” — over 1,000 guests float down the winding river by raft under lights. Jiyuan Yellow River Three Gorges Wild Boar Forest rafting covers 6 kilometers with a drop of over 100 meters, with rapids rushing through the forest. Xinyang Jingangtai Canyon rafting is nearly 6 kilometers long with a total drop of over 170 meters. Water parks: Zhengzhou Opalala Water Park is open from 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM, surrounded by native forest, shielding visitors from the sun. Attractions include the tornado super funnel and tidal lazy river, with a starlight electronic water party at night. Yijiangnan Tourist Resort debuts the new “Cloud drifting river,” where floating rings drift through the forest. Zhengzhou Fantawild Water Park offers 20+ water attractions open all day. Water play: Puyang Longqi Island Water Park features water challenges and continuous forest mist sprays. Jiyuan Wulongkou hosts nonstop “water gun battles” and “fantasy bubble parties.” 🌙 Cultural night tours · more exciting after dark Kaifeng “Happy Song”: In the evening, experience the immersive script game “Palace joy party” at Longting and Tianbo Yang Mansion, with NPCs interacting throughout. As night falls, take a boat tour on the Bian River, with brightly lit Song-style pavilions lining both banks. At night, watch the full live show “The thousand-year moon of the southern yamen” at Kaifeng Prefecture. A 24-hour unlimited boat pass costs only 68 yuan. Anyang Fantawild Yin Shang Divine Painting: The nation’s first Yin Shang culture theme park grandly opens on July 18. Covering 931 acres, it features 11 high-tech indoor themed attractions and 27 outdoor dynamic rides. Using VR/AR, holographic projection, and other cutting-edge technology, it brings Yin Shang history, the Lady Fu Hao legend, and oracle bone script to life. The “white + black” all-day performance includes NPC interaction and ancient-style parades by day, and large-scale live shows, mech parades, and light shows by night. Night tours across the region: Luoyang Yibin Central Park hosts the “Yibin summer night” intangible cultural heritage performances and specialty markets; Zhoukou Wildlife World offers a “white + black” play mode; Luohe Shenzhou Bird Park presents over 100 shows daily. 🎁 Benefits for residents · full of sincerity The province offers over 300 ticket discounts and special events. Zhengzhou, Kaifeng, Luoyang, and Jiaozuo provide various annual passes and combo tickets. Popular attractions like Laojun Mountain and Baiyun Mountain offer free admission for students and other groups. In Anyang, presenting train tickets for K8008 or K1970 within 7 days grants 40% off hotels and 50% off core attraction tickets. 📝 Travel tips 1. Book early: Henan is busy in summer. Book hotels and tickets at least 2 weeks in advance 2. What to wear: Bring a light jacket for cool mountain mornings and evenings; wear quick-dry clothes and non-slip shoes for water activities, and bring a waterproof bag 3. Sun and heat protection: Use sunscreen for outdoor activities. Many attractions offer free mung bean soup and sour plum juice 4. Safety first: Wear life jackets throughout rafting and follow park safety guidelines From the cool canyons of the Taihang Mountains to the vast bamboo sea of Funiu Mountain, from the tech wonders of the Yin Shang theme park to the Song dynasty charm of the Bian River night tour — Henan’s summer offers mountains, water, culture, and heartfelt hospitality. Gather your friends and head to Central China for a summer of fun! 🌞💦

Everyone heads to the beach in summer, but I prefer hiding out in the mountains and ancient towns. These 8 places are reachable by high-speed rail within 2 to 4 hours, offering experiences from bustling local life to vast desert landscapes. The best part is they’re not crowded. 01 Zhangzhou | Fujian How to explore Zhangzhou? I’ll answer the three questions you care about most. First: Is one day enough? It is, but you’ll regret it. Yunshuiyao ancient town and Nanjing Tulou are on the same route. Trying to visit both in one day feels rushed. I recommend staying overnight. Get up early the next day to visit the Tulou before the tourists arrive, and you can hear the wind rustling through the rammed earth walls. ⏰ Arrive at Yunshuiyao after 4 PM. The light hits the waterwheel and cobblestone streets perfectly—no filter needed for photos. Second: Beach or mountains? If you want both, go to Binhai Volcano National Geopark. Here’s a tip—⚠️ going at 2 PM means baking under the sun and questioning your life choices. It’s best to arrive before 8 AM. After the tide recedes, you can find little crabs on the black volcanic rocks. Wear non-slip shoes because the algae on the stones is extremely slippery. Third: What to eat? 🍜 At the Hakka restaurant in Yunshuiyao, the signature dish is braised pork with preserved vegetables. The meat is tender and pairs perfectly with a bowl of plain rice. Don’t eat at the first restaurant at the scenic entrance. Walk 50 meters into the alley to the one with heavy cooking smoke—that’s the authentic spot. 02 Nanchong | Sichuan Langzhong ancient town is what I call “the quiet contender overlooked by high-speed rail.” ⏰ Visit Zhangjia Courtyard in the morning. Tickets cost 20 yuan. Once inside, you’ll be amazed by the window carvings. Each wooden panel tells a different story. The elderly man in the courtyard will share Qing dynasty tales, then wave you off saying “feel free to explore.” At noon, climb Huaguang Tower. The wind from the Jialing River will blow your hair wildly. Looking down, you’ll see rows of blue-tiled roofs with no tall buildings blocking the view. ⚠️ Don’t climb the tower at noon. It’s hot, and the narrow stairs cause congestion. In the afternoon, turn into Xuedao Street and buy a steamed bun with sugar for 3 yuan. It’s so soft you can leave an imprint with your fingers. 🍜 The beef noodle shop at the street corner serves hand-pulled noodles with a savory broth that will have you licking your lips. 03 Jiaxing | Zhejiang Wuzhen or Xitang—which to choose? Let me break it down. If you only have one day, Xitang is better. Enter from the east gate and exit the south gate. A two-hour walk lets you see the rowboats under the bridges. 🍜 Guan Laotai’s stinky tofu costs 6 yuan per serving. It’s fried crispy and tastes addictive with chili sauce. ⏰ Visit Songzi Laifeng Bridge after 5 PM. The sunset turns the water golden—perfect for photos. If you stay overnight, pick Wuzhen. The night scene in West Scenic Area is like a sweet movie, but don’t miss the daytime either—before 9 AM, it’s empty, the stone paths are wet, and you can hear birds singing. ⚠️ The shadow puppetry in East Scenic Area ends at 3 PM. Don’t miss it. How to choose between the two? Take elders and kids to Xitang for its flat stone paths and no bridge climbing. If you’re traveling alone, go to Wuzhen. Even in the crowded bar street, you’ll find your own corner. 04 Jiuquan | Gansu This summer, you have to visit the far northwest. If you only go to one place, make it Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 6:30 PM. The sand is still hot, but after 7 PM when the sun tilts, the lake’s surface glows golden. I wore shoe covers climbing the sand dunes, but still got sand inside. When I took off my shoes to shake it out, the hot sand made my feet jump. Book Mogao Caves at least two weeks in advance. ⚠️ Emergency tickets only allow viewing four caves. You’ll wait two hours in line and have five minutes inside. I listened to a guide at the entrance who said the murals in Cave 45 are still vivid, and the Bodhisattva’s eyes follow you from any angle. Yadan National Geopark and Yumenguan Pass can be visited together. Start from the city in the morning, visit Yumenguan first, then go to Yadan at 3 PM. When the wind blows, the Yadan landforms whistle like they’re crying. 05 Xinxiang | Henan Which suits you better, Baoquan Tourist Area or Bali Valley? Here’s a direct comparison. Baoquan is all about water. Walk along the boardwalk surrounded by waterfalls, with cool mist refreshing your face. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM for fewer crowds and the roar of water. At the innermost spot, Yaoci, the water is emerald green like jade. Swimming is prohibited, but soaking your feet is incredibly refreshing. Bali Valley is embraced by mountains. The climb is long with many steps, but there are shady spots along the way. 🍜 The farmhouse halfway up sells hand-pulled noodles for 10 yuan a bowl, topped with tomato and egg sauce. It’s energizing. ⚠️ Don’t carry too much water. Drinks are affordable on the mountain, and a heavy backpack makes the climb miserable. Families should go to Baoquan for elevators and sightseeing buses that save your legs. Young people will enjoy Bali Valley for the satisfying muscle burn after the climb. 06 Yantai | Shandong Between Yantai and Weihai, I choose Yantai for its laid-back vibe. Penglai Pavilion is a must-see. ⏰ It opens at 7 AM. I was among the first visitors. At the main hall, sea mist still lingered, creating a mystical atmosphere. The statue of Qi Jiguang inside is a bit worn, but standing by the window looking at the sea, you can imagine the historic scenes. Changdao Island requires a 40-minute boat ride. Rent an electric bike on the island and ride along the coastal road to Jiuzhang Cliff. ⚠️ Visit after 5 PM. Before sunset, the cliffs turn red and look stunning. 🍜 The seafood farmhouse’s steamed sea urchin egg custard costs 31 yuan. The custard is silky, and the sea urchin roe is fresh and sweet. Longkou Nanshan is peaceful. The Buddha’s base requires three laps. Counting steps on the stairs calms your mind. It’s perfect for solo travelers or visiting with parents—they’ll love it. 07 Anshan | Liaoning Qianshan is, I swear, one of the top three mountain views in northeast China. Enter through the main gate, take the cable car halfway up, then hike to the summit. ⏰ Start at 2 PM and hike two hours to Wufoding to catch the sunset. From the top, the layered mountains look like a painting. ⚠️ Avoid climbing Jiabianshi. Overweight people can get stuck—I saw a man trapped for 10 minutes. After descending, soak in the hot springs town. It costs 51 yuan per person and leaves you relaxed. 🍜 The restaurant by the hot springs serves crispy sweet and sour pork. Paired with a bowl of rice, it’s delicious. 08 Guilin | Guangxi Guilin’s scenery is world-famous, but in summer, you have to go with its flow. Xingping ancient town is where you see the “20 yuan bill background.” ⏰ Visit at dusk. The setting sun casts shadows on the peaks reflected in the Li River. Take a bamboo raft for a short drift. The water is calm, the breeze cool, and you can hear the pole dipping into the water. Ludi Cave is a karst cave that’s cool inside. Colorful lights illuminate the stalactites, some shaped like lions, others like old men. 🍜 After the cave, visit the nearby rice noodle shop. A bowl of braised meat noodles costs 8 yuan. The crispy pot-stewed pork and char siu are fragrant. Longji rice terraces depend on the season. In mid to late August, the terraces are lush green, almost dripping with water. Driving up takes an hour with many curves, so take motion sickness medicine if needed. ⚠️ There’s no signal at the summit. Bring enough cash. Among these 8 places, I guess you’ll head to Guilin or Jiuquan first because of the strong contrast. Share in the comments which one you chose or tell me about any pitfalls you’ve encountered so we can exchange tips.

Autumn often gets labeled as "expensive," with flight prices soaring to discouraging levels. But after checking the map, I discovered several greatly underestimated places—😏 ancient towns within a 2-hour high-speed rail ride, vast grasslands with admission tickets costing only two digits, and authentic Miao villages where you can stay for an average of 200 yuan. August to October is their peak beauty season, with fewer crowds. These 8 destinations are budget-friendly and offer a unique experience. NO.1 Qinhuangdao | Hebei ⏰ Head straight to Pigeon Nest Park at 5:30 AM to watch the sunrise. The sea breeze is salty and damp, the beach still cool from the night, and the moment the sun leaps from the horizon, it all feels worth it. After sunrise, turn to Haining Road for a steaming hot jianbing guozi, only 5 yuan with an egg. 📍 At noon, move to Shanhaiguan. Enter from the west gate and walk along the city wall to Jingbian Tower. ⚠️ Don't enter from the east gate; tour groups arrive promptly after 10 AM, making it so crowded you'll question your life choices. Old Dragon's Head is a must-visit, but the light is perfect after 4 PM, allowing you to capture the epic grandeur of the Great Wall entering the sea. 🍜 Don't go to the seafood stalls inside the scenic area in the evening; they are expensive and not fresh. Outside the ancient city, locals recommend the steamed seafood restaurant in the alley opposite "Sijiao Baozi." The razor clams are plump, and a plate is only 30 yuan. NO.2 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Hasihate Stone Forest is the only hardcore geological landscape on this trip. 🚄 The most convenient way to get there from Chifeng Station is by self-driving. Car rental is just over 200 yuan a day, plus fuel costs. Here's a decision point: if you're short on time, head straight to the core area of the stone forest, "Genghis Khan's Horse Hitching Post." Don't waste energy on other small rock piles. ⚠️ Absolutely do not go between 2 PM and 3 PM; the UV rays are so strong your skin will burn. ⏰ In the early morning at 8 AM or after 5 PM, the light hits obliquely, making the stone formations' textures appear gilded, perfect for stunning photos. 🍜 There's a Mongolian restaurant at the scenic area entrance. The hand-torn lamb is not gamey; eat it with chive flower sauce and a bowl of milk tea. It's about 60 yuan per person. NO.3 Qiandongnan | Guizhou Here, I'll directly answer three questions for you: First, is it worth staying a night in Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village? Yes, but don't book a guesthouse near the viewing platform; it's expensive and noisy. 📍 Stay at "Anong Miaojia" halfway up the mountain. Open the window, and you'll see layers of wooden buildings. At night, you can hear mountain songs being sung. It's just over 200 yuan a night. Second, how do you avoid crowds in Zhaoxing Dong Village? Before 6 AM, you'll be the only one on the stone path below the drum tower, with elderly people embroidering at their doorways. 🍜 At the intersection, an old woman sells glutinous rice rolls with grilled meat for 5 yuan. The aroma of glutinous rice mixed with charcoal smoke is incredibly satisfying. Third, which should you choose between Zhenyuan Ancient Town and Xianghuoyan? If you have enough time, go to Xianghuoyan. The autumn maple leaves are unbelievably red. Hike into the valley, where streams gurgle, and mist drifts through the forest. ⚠️ Zhenyuan Ancient Town is a bit commercialized, but the night view is indeed worth seeing. Avoid the barbecue stalls along the Wuyang River; they have a high chance of being disappointing. NO.4 Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Autumn here belongs to the gentle side of the Northwest. 📍 Riyue Mountain, at an altitude of 3,500 meters, is so windy it could blow you away, but looking out, the grasslands are golden, with cattle and sheep scattered about. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM when the light is clear, allowing you to capture snow-capped mountains and prayer flags in the same frame. Guide National Geological Park is more like God's palette, with the earth forest reflecting layers of red, yellow, and purple after 2 PM. ⚠️ Absolutely do not wear light-colored shoes; the wind will blow red soil onto them, staining them earth-colored. 🍜 In Guide County, there's a "Lao Ma Roast Meat" restaurant. The pan-fried lamb with qingke flatbread is so filling it's 70-80 yuan per person. NO.5 Heihe | Heilongjiang The autumn scenery of Wudalianchi is an underestimated treasure. If you're with elderly people or children, take the walking path in Laoheishan Scenic Area. You can reach the crater in 50 minutes and get a panoramic view of the volcanic cluster and lakes. ⚠️ Don't go to Geqiushan; it has many steep steps, and you'll be exhausted afterward. If you're alone, rent a bicycle and ride to San Chi. The deciduous broadleaf forests along the way turn completely golden. 📍 At the entrance of Wenbo Scenic Area, there's a small shop selling volcanic mud masks for 10 yuan a bag, which you can take home as a souvenir. ⏰ The best time here is late September to early October, when fallen leaves cover the boardwalks, rustling underfoot. NO.6 Datong | Shanxi Centered around Yungang Grottoes, radiating outwards. 📍 Enter Yungang at 8 AM when there are fewer people. The sunlight shines from the east into the Buddha statues in the grottoes, softening their expressions. ⚠️ Don't rent an audio guide; tag along with a tour group's guide for more vivid historical details. After your visit, there's a "Beiwai Jiayan" restaurant nearby. The knife-cut noodles are springy, and the lamb offal soup is thick enough to cling to the bowl. 🚄 In the afternoon, take a taxi to Hanging Temple, a 40-minute drive. Here's how to choose: if you have a fear of heights, don't buy a climbing ticket; the panoramic view from below is impressive enough. If you like excitement, buy a ticket and climb up; the boardwalk is so narrow only one person can pass at a time. Mount Heng is right next door, but ⚠️ the cable car stops operating after 4:30 PM, so go early if you plan to climb. NO.7 Jingdezhen | Jiangxi Day and night are two completely different worlds. During the day, visit Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Exhibition Area. Go into the handicraft workshops and watch master craftsmen turn clay into vases. 📍 Deep within the park, the "Ming and Qing Imperial Kiln" hides an ancient kiln site, with brick walls blackened by firing. At night, move to Taoxichuan Cultural and Creative District. The old red-brick factories lit up have a great atmosphere. 🍜 Outside the park, at the night market stalls, there's a vendor selling cold noodles. The spiciness hits you directly, and a sip of mung bean soup afterward helps cool it down. Budget tip: Don't make impulsive purchases at the ceramic market. For the same bowl, stalls further inside are 20 yuan cheaper than those closer to the entrance. NO.8 Xinxiang | Henan Baquan or Baligou, which to choose? If you're with family, Baquan is more suitable. The boardwalks are gentle, the streams are shallow and clear, and you can play in the water directly. ⏰ After 2 PM, sunlight filters through the mountain crevices, creating a beam of light on the water, perfect for photos. If you're hiking alone, the depths of the Taihang Mountains in Baligou offer more wild fun. 📍 From the scenic area entrance, take the left path to avoid crowds. In an hour, you can reach "Tianhe Waterfall," where it's quiet enough to hear the water. ⚠️ Absolutely do not take the cable car in Baligou; it's expensive, and the scenery is mediocre. Take the longer route down, and you'll pass an ancient village called "Baodu Bridge," where an old woman by the stone path sells local produce, like a large bag of walnuts for 10 yuan. Don't let "low budget" be an excuse not to travel. These 8 cities, from sea to mountain,

At 10:50 AM on July 23, 2026, after driving through the Wujiawan Scenic Area in South Taihang, you enter the Heimaogou Grand Canyon. Located in Ma Gedang Township, Lingchuan County, Jincheng, Shanxi, between Hengshui Village and Shuangdi Village, this is the narrowest and most rugged deep valley in South Taihang, also known as the Shilihe Grand Canyon. It stretches about 5 km, with cliffs on both sides carved like knives and axes, dropping 300–400 meters. The narrowest point is only 10 meters wide, with just a sliver of sky visible overhead. The winding road through the canyon creates a strong sense of enclosure. This place combines majestic nature with rich history, making it an excellent spot to experience the raw wilderness of South Taihang.travel diarylocal cultureencounters beautynotesSouth TaihangTaihang self-driving tourself-driving check-inGrand Canyonmountain road self-driving tourtravel photosoff-the-beaten-path tour

📍Navigation: Ancient stone Diexi Gorge (Gushidian Village, Mage Dang, Lingchuan, Shanxi, just 2 km from Wujiawan) 🎫Admission: 🆓Free! Parking is also free! ⏰Best time: 2–3 hours of fun | June–August is the top choice for a cool summer getaway! 🚗Route from Zhengzhou/Xinxiang: Zhengyun Expressway → Baoshang Road (stop by the stunning Baoquan Reservoir viewing platform) → Wujiawan → Diexi Gorge ⚠️Mountain road warning: The second half is full of tight switchbacks! Even experienced drivers should slow down, honk, and drive carefully~⛔ 🌊Must-do route: 1️⃣ Entrance shallow water area A paradise for family water play! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 You can wade and catch small fish. Parents, remember to bring a small net for the kids~ 2️⃣ Water-friendly boardwalk A perfect photo spot! 📸 Red rocks, clear water, and layered waterfalls make every shot a masterpiece! Wearing bright clothes is recommended for better photos✨ 3️⃣ Bamboo raft experience Best after 4 PM. The creek glows golden under the sunset—breathtaking! (Paid activity, but you can negotiate a bit~) 🍃Recommended route connection: Baoshang Road viewing platform → Wujiawan → Diexi Gorge → Heimaogou Grand Canyon → Shuangdi Village Explore the highlights of South Taihang in one day! 🎒Essentials checklist: ✔️Non-slip creek shoes (regular slippers won’t do!) ✔️Two sets of clothes to change (you’ll get wet) ✔️Sun protection kit (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) ✔️Insect repellent (mosquitoes are very active in the mountains) ✔️Drinking water (no supplies inside the scenic area) 🔥Important reminders: ❌No lifeguards in the wild area! Never swim alone! 💦Do not visit within 24 hours after rain! Flash flood warning! 🚮Leave no trace! Please take your trash with you~

While the whole country feels like a sauna in August, some places stay just above 20℃ year-round. You can hop on a high-speed train and escape the heat in just 2 hours. Don’t just focus on the crowded popular summer spots packed like rush hour—scenery and prices often move in opposite directions. These 8 places have fewer visitors, a cool feel, and plenty to do. I’ve tried them all for you, and each is worth a weekend trip on its own. 01 Xinxiang | Henan Baoquan tourist area and Baligou are both at the foot of the Taihang Mountains in Xinxiang, a quiet weekend retreat for locals. ⏰ Arrive at Baoquan before 9 AM to see a thin mist floating over the water, like stepping into an ink painting. Start with the cliff trail at Baoquan, with waterfalls on one side and deep canyon pools on the other. The temperature feels no higher than 25℃, and you won’t break a sweat after a whole morning walk. 🍜 For lunch, try a bowl of hand-pulled noodles at a farmhouse restaurant near the exit, topped with freshly picked wild vegetables. 📍 It’s a 30-minute drive from Baoquan to Baligou. If you want to swim, head to Peach Blossom Bay in Baligou. The water is shallow and crystal clear, and stepping in barefoot feels icy cold. ⚠️ After 4 PM, the canyon light is blocked by the mountains, so take photos early. 02 Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan Jiuzhaigou, Siguniang Mountain, and Huanglong together offer more than 3 days of activities, with temperatures between 15–23℃. Bring a light jacket. If you pick only one, Jiuzhaigou tickets are the most in demand, so prioritize it. 📍 Start Jiuzhaigou with a sightseeing bus through the primeval forest, descending to Arrow Bamboo Lake and Five Flower Lake. Have your packed lunch at Nuorilang center station. Bring a windbreaker because the lake temperature drops sharply on cloudy days. Siguniang Mountain’s Shuangqiao Valley is easier, with shuttle buses throughout. If you’re not prone to altitude sickness, visit the redwood forest in the morning to photograph snow mountain reflections, then go rafting at Nianyu Dam in the afternoon. ⚠️ Huanglong’s Five Color Pool looks better under strong sun but sits near 3,600 meters elevation. You’ll be out of breath after a few steps, so bring oxygen and climb in short sections. 03 Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Yuanmou and Wumao earth forests and Yi Ancient Town feel like 25℃ in summer, about 2–3 degrees warmer than Kunming but dry and comfortable. Photography lovers should arrive at Wumao earth forest’s viewing platform before 6:30 AM. Sunlight streams through the earth forest gaps, making the towers look like they’re on fire with vivid colors. ⚠️ The midday sun is intense, so wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen. 📍 In the afternoon, head back to Yi Ancient Town. Though it’s a replica, the solar calendar square is the highlight. Find a teahouse, sit under a tree, sip roasted tea, and listen to the owner share Torch Festival customs. 🍜 For dinner, order Yi-style stewed pork chunks dipped in spicy Sichuan pepper sauce—full of fresh aroma. 04 Daxing’anling Area | Heilongjiang One of the coolest places in China in summer, with daytime temperatures just above 20℃ and needing a light blanket at night. The Arctic Village’s midnight sun is most obvious around the summer solstice. In August, you won’t see the aurora but can experience starry nights. 📍 I recommend visiting Beiji Sandbar after 4 PM. Walk the boardwalk through the birch forest, which feels like an air-conditioned room. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are abundant at night. Don’t wear shorts. Buy mosquito repellent at local supermarkets for the best price. If driving, take National Highway G111 south. The Daxing’anling forest is a mix of larch and birch, and you might spot reindeer jumping fences. 🍜 Try crispy fried willow root fish at a local forest restaurant. The fish is crispy outside and tender inside. 05 Hengyang | Hunan Mount Heng in southern Hunan is a popular cool spot in summer. The temperature at Zhuru Peak is 7–8 degrees lower than at the base. ⏰ Enter from Xiling ticket gate before 9 AM. Take a bus up to Nantianmen, then hike 30 minutes to Zhuru Peak. Morning mist wraps the mountain in moist coolness. 📍 Don’t rush after descending. On incense street outside the Nanyue Temple, there’s a long-established vegetarian restaurant. Their green pepper fried vegetarian chicken tastes fresher than real chicken. ⚠️ The temple square is crowded on weekends. To photograph the temple without people, arrive before 8 AM. 🍜 The fermented tofu at the foot of Hengshan is homemade by locals. Buy two jars as souvenirs. 06 Panjin | Liaoning The Red Beach scenic corridor is most vibrant from late August to mid-September, as Suaeda salsa changes from light red to deep purple. ⏰ Arrive at the corridor by 2 PM. The slanting sun turns the entire tidal flat into red velvet, with a temperature below 28℃. 📍 Enter from the north gate. First see where the Red Beach meets the reed marsh, a migratory bird habitat. If lucky, spot red-crowned cranes. ⚠️ The corridor is 18 km long. Walking is tiring, so rent a bike. Ride to the Crane Viewing Platform halfway, then turn back. 🍜 For dinner, go to “Liaohekou Fisherman’s House” in the city. Order Panjin river crab stewed with tofu. Crabs are fattest in September, but now you can enjoy the crab roe. 07 Ningde | Fujian Mount Taimu, Baishuiyang·Yuanyang Creek, and Xiapu tidal flats feel around 27℃ in August. The wind between mountains and sea keeps it from feeling muggy. Photographers should claim a spot at Xiapu Beiqi tidal flats before 5 PM. The sunset light on seaweed racks and fishing boats makes stunning shots. ⚠️ Sunrise at 6:30 AM is best viewed from Huazhu Village viewing platform, but check tide tables a day ahead. Low tide reveals full tidal flat patterns. Mount Taimu is less crowded before 10 AM. Take the narrow stone steps from Couple Peaks to One Line Sky, where you have to turn sideways to pass. 📍 Baishuiyang’s water is shallow, perfect for barefoot wading in July and August. In wet years, you can even enjoy water slides. 08 Guyuan | Ningxia Guyuan is a cool highland in Ningxia, feeling around 25℃ and dry and comfortable. The Xumishan Grottoes lie at the foot of Liupan Mountain. ⏰ Arrive by 9 AM to see sunlight perfectly illuminating the Buddha’s face, with clear statue lines. ⚠️ The grotto area has many steps. Wear sneakers for stability. Avoid sandals. 📍 After visiting the grottoes, hike up the Xumishan trail for 10 minutes. A small temple at the summit offers views of the entire Danxia landform. 🍜 After descending, try a bowl of raw boiled noodles in Guyuan city. The broth is made from lamb bones, warming but not greasy. getaway scenery travel the beaten path

Think summer only means air-conditioned rooms and crowded places? The secret for August and September is: some places require a jacket in the morning and evening, some cities are scorching hot during the day, but the evening breeze can be intoxicating. Within a 2-hour high-speed train radius, you can explore northern Xinjiang’s pastures and southern wetlands. Transportation costs range from a few bus tickets to a thousand-dollar flight. For this list, I picked destinations that local friends all say are best visited at this time. 01 Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Let me ask you: Has the wheat in Jiangbulake turned golden in August? The answer is just right—the wheat fields shimmer like golden waves, rustling in the wind. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM. The slanting sunlight hits the hillside, casting long shadows. Any photo you take looks like wallpaper. For Tian Shan Tianchi, I recommend going after 4 PM when tour groups start leaving and the lake surface is as calm as a mirror. ⚠️ Don’t buy roasted buns at the scenic entrance—they’re expensive. Walk 50 meters inside to a local stall selling lamb-filled buns with thin skins you can see through. Skip Colorful Bay and navigate to the “Burnt Mountain” intersection. Both sides of the road are red earth, even more beautiful than inside the scenic area. 🚄 Take the bullet train from Urumqi Station to Changji Station, 15 minutes, ticket costs a few yuan. 02 Huangshi City | Hubei Chengyue Island? Local friends say, “We only went there for spring outings as kids.” But if you visit at dusk, you’ll find it’s underrated. 🍜 By the island, there’s a “Old Huangshi Doupi” stall. The owner sets up at 3 PM. The crispy bean curd wraps sticky rice and marinated dried tofu. One bite bursts with savory oil flavor. ⏰ Best time is 5 to 6 PM. The sun sets west, reflecting golden light on the lake, making the whole island look like it’s coated in copper. ⚠️ There are no streetlights on the island. Leave once it gets dark. For lodging, stay in Huangshi Port District—close to the island and a taxi costs just over 10 yuan. 03 Tianjin Wuda Dao or the Italian Style Area? I choose Wuda Dao. The Italian Style Area lights up at night, packed with tourists changing outfits and taking photos, as crowded as a morning rush subway. Wuda Dao is different. ⏰ Go at 7 AM when the streets are empty and you can hear pigeons flapping their wings. 🍜 I recommend “Guiyuan Restaurant” on Chengdu Road. Locals have eaten there since childhood. The eight-treasure tofu is crispy outside and tender inside, and the shrimp are as big as coins. ⚠️ Don’t take sightseeing horse carriages with canopies—they’re expensive and hot. Rent a bike yourself. Start from Minyuan Stadium, head south along Machang Road, then turn into an unnamed alley to see old Tianjin’s clotheslines and old buildings. 🚄 Take a taxi from Tianjin Station directly to Wuda Dao, about 20 minutes. 04 Chongqing Wulong Karst or the Yangtze Three Gorges? Bring family and kids? Choose Wulong. Going solo? Choose the Three Gorges. Wulong’s Fairy Mountain grassland is so green in August it looks like you can squeeze water from it. ⏰ Arrive before 2 PM to catch the thin mist on the mountaintop, like walking in clouds. The Dazu Rock Carvings are even more amazing. Be sure to hire a guide; otherwise, you’ll just see stones without understanding why they’re smiling. ⏰ For Baodingshan Rock Carvings’ “Parental Gratitude Sutra,” visit around the National Day holiday. The sunlight hits the Buddha’s face perfectly, so compassionate it feels like it’s speaking to you. ⚠️ For the Yangtze Three Gorges cruise, don’t buy the top-level luxury ticket—it’s expensive. The second level is enough, and you can still go up to the deck. The money saved can buy a hot pot meal. 05 Suqian City | Jiangsu Hongze Lake Wetland in August still has blooming lotus flowers. 🍜 At the scenic entrance, they sell “Hongze Lake salted duck eggs” for 1.5 yuan each. The yolks are oily and delicious. Eat them with freshly made potstickers—amazing. ⏰ Best time is after 4:30 PM when the sun isn’t so harsh. Walk along the boardwalk and you’ll see egrets standing in shallow water waiting to catch fish. ⚠️ There are mosquitoes in the wetland. Bring some insect repellent and don’t expose your ankles. 🚄 From Suqian Station, take a taxi to the wetland, about 30 minutes. If you have elderly with you, rent an electric scooter at the wetland entrance to save your legs. 06 Shenyang City | Liaoning Which is worth visiting, Beiling Park or Shenyang Expo Garden? I vote for Beiling Park. The Expo Garden is large with many flowers, but in August the heat is dizzying. Beiling Park is different. ⏰ Go at 6:30 AM when the morning mist hasn’t lifted, shadows of ancient pines fall on the ground, and you can hear old Shenyang locals warming up their voices during morning exercise. 🍜 Exit the park’s south gate, turn right to “Majia Shaomai.” The lamb shaomai bursts with soup in every bite. Dip it in vinegar for a taste fit for an emperor’s inspection tour. ⚠️ The pagoda at Beita Falun Temple is blocked by trees after 4 PM. If you want to photograph it, go early. The Wujingjingguang Relic Pagoda is at the northwest corner of Beiling Park. Ask a local elder for directions—it’s more reliable than navigation. 07 Xinxiang City | Henan How to visit Baoquan Tourist Area and Baligou? My route: finish both in one day. ⏰ Go to Baoquan in the morning. The water is as clear as glass, and you can see the stones at the bottom. I recommend the “Emerald Lake” section—the water is so blue it doesn’t look like it belongs by the Yellow River. Have a bowl of handmade heluo noodles at Baoquan’s entrance for lunch. The noodles are chewy with lamb and radish toppings. You’ll feel energized after eating. In the afternoon, head to Baligou. ⚠️ Don’t take the scenic bus to the mountaintop—you’ll be exhausted walking down. Walk only the foothill section to see waterfalls and feel the cool mist on your face. 🚄 Get off at Xinxiang East Station and take a shared ride. It takes about 20 minutes. 08 Hulunbuir City | Inner Mongolia Hulunbuir Grassland’s grass starts turning yellow by late August. If you go in mid-September, the golden meadows are even more charming than green ones. ⏰ Best time: 6:30 PM at sunset. The whole grassland is dyed warm orange, and cattle and sheep cast long shadows on the ground. 📍 Avoid those fenced “herder home visits” that charge admission. Drive deeper yourself and find a yurt with a sheepdog. Pay the herder directly, and he can slaughter a fresh sheep for you. Paired with freshly fermented yogurt, the gamey smell is diluted, leaving only freshness. ⚠️ For barbecues on the grassland, don’t use open flames. The local wind is strong and can easily start a fire. Use a charcoal stove, find a sheltered slope, and bury the ashes after eating. These 8 places are perfect to visit in August and September—weather is mild, crowds are light, and scenery is beautiful. My top three picks: Changji’s wheat waves and Tianchi, Hulunbuir’s dusk, and Shenyang Beiling Park’s morning. Which one have you been to? Let me know in the comments.

📍Address: Huilong Village, Shangbali Town, Huixian City, Xinxiang City, Henan Province ⏰Opening hours: 08:00 AM–06:00 PM year-round (last entry at 05:30 PM) 🎫Admission ticket: Adult package CNY 88/person (admission ticket CNY 48 + scenic shuttle CNY 40, valid for 2 days, unlimited shuttle rides); discounts available for students/seniors 🚗Transportation: Navigate to "Huilong Tianjieshan Scenic Area". Approximately 1.5 hours from Zhengzhou, about 1 hour from Xinxiang ⛰️Why is it called the "scenic gallery on the Taihang cliffs"? Located in the heart of the Southern Taihang Mountains, Huilong Tianjieshan is a national forest park and geological park. China National Geographic once praised it: "The Taihang Mountains gave their most beautiful section to Henan." The red rock cliffs here are hundreds of meters high, stretching endlessly, and are known as the "No. 1 Red Rock Gallery of Taihang." The scenic area's elevation ranges from 800–1,725 meters, with an average summer temperature of 22℃. It's a 1.5-hour direct drive from Zhengzhou, making it an excellent summer retreat! 🔥Top 3 must-visit attractions | Missing one means you came for nothing! 1️⃣ Yunfeng Gallery – 360° suspended view of Taihang🌄 The soul of Tianjieshan! An approximately 8-kilometer circular trail built along a cliff at an altitude of 1,200 meters. There are 6–7 observation decks along the way, offering panoramic views of the red rock cliffs and deep canyons from different angles. For average physical fitness, it's recommended to take the sightseeing bus (CNY 30/person), which allows hop-on/hop-off for convenience. If you want a more immersive experience, you can hike the essential section, which takes 2–3 hours. 2️⃣ Laoyeding – "The No. 1 Iron Peak in the World," a sacred place for blessings🙏 At an altitude of 1,570 meters, it is as famous as Wudang Mountain's Golden Peak (Southern Peak), with the ancient saying "Golden Peak in the South, Iron Peak in the North." The Xuanwu Temple on the summit is entirely stone, without beams, and has an iron-tiled roof, making it a Ming Dynasty relic. Ascend to the top for a panoramic view of the mountains, with the red rock cliffs stretching as far as the eye can see, offering a great sense of accomplishment. The cable car is CNY 60 for a one-way trip and CNY 100 for a round trip. If you don't want to climb, just take the cable car up! 3️⃣ Huilong Cliffside Road – 8-kilometer "S"-shaped sky road on the cliff🚌 The youngest cliffside road in the Taihang Mountains! This 8-kilometer "S"-shaped tunnel is the "road to heaven" carved out by the people of Huilong Village. With 90-degree and 180-degree sharp turns winding along a hundred-meter cliff, you can experience the awe-inspiring "modern Foolish Old Man" from the scenic shuttle bus! If you want to take photos, you can ask the driver to stop at the tunnel entrance and walk to admire the Taihang scenery through the skylights. 🗺️One-day essential itinerary | Follow this to avoid getting lost! Purchase tickets at Baligou Visitor Center → Take the scenic bus through Huilong Cliffside Road (the best view is from the front of the bus!) → Get off at Qingfeng Pass (starting point for hiking) → Hike Yunfeng Gallery clockwise (Guizhentai → Laojun'an → Shidantai and other observation decks) → Lunch at Qingfeng Pass (local stew, wild vegetables) → Take the cable car up Laoyeding → Ascend to the summit for blessings and panoramic views of Taihang → Take the cable car down the mountain for the return journey The entire trip takes approximately 5–6 hours. It's recommended to arrive before 08:00 AM to avoid peak crowds! 📷Amazing photo spots | These will definitely make your social media posts pop! 📌Shidantai: The most photogenic observation deck in Yunfeng Gallery, with a bottomless abyss beneath your feet 📌Cliffside Road tunnel entrance: Capture the "S"-shaped sky road and red rock cliffs in the same frame 📌Laoyeding: Overlook the Taihang peaks; if the weather is good, you can see a sea of clouds 📌Guizhentai iron frame observation deck: Steep and thrilling, not for the faint of heart, but the photos are incredible 🍜Dining and accommodation guide | Live deep in the Taihang Mountains! 🍚Qingfeng Pass snack stalls: Authentic mountain flavors like local stew and wild vegetables 🏡Dadongxiangju: A newly built mid-to-high-end guesthouse in 2022, a Xinxiang municipal-level boutique guesthouse 🏡Juxingge Farmhouse: CNY 150–300/night including three meals + scenic area shuttle, ingredients from their own vegetable garden 🏡Huilong Village farmhouses: One of the top ten most beautiful villages in China, offers long-term stays with meals and accommodation ⚠️Tips to avoid pitfalls | Follow these to have a smooth trip! ✅Admission ticket is valid for 2 days; if you have ample time, plan a two-day in-depth tour ✅Wear non-slip athletic shoes! The walkway is along a cliff, and some sections are narrow ✅Bring a light jacket! It's windy on the mountain, and cool even in summer ✅Pack enough water and snacks! There are few supply points on the walkway ✅Apply sunscreen! UV rays are strong on the mountain ✅Bring a power bank! You'll be taking so many photos of the cliffs you won't want to stop🔋 ✅Take motion sickness medicine in advance if you get carsick! The cliffside road has many turns ✅You can buy a combined ticket for Baligou + Tianjieshan; the two scenic areas are close, allowing you to explore both thoroughly 💫Final thoughts | Taihang hides its most beautiful section here. Go quickly before it gets crowded! The beauty of Tianjieshan is the awe you feel standing on the 1,200-meter suspended walkway overlooking the red rock cliffs; it's the respect for the "modern Foolish Old Man" as you pass through the 8-kilometer "S"-shaped cliffside road; it's the pride of "looking down on all mountains" when you reach the 1,570-meter summit of Laoyeding. Here, there's no excessive commercialization, only the purest Taihang scenery and the deeply moving spirit of Huilong. A 1.5-hour direct drive from Zhengzhou, you can venture into this Southern Taihang secret realm, favored by National Geographic, on a weekend🏔️💚 Suitable for all seasons – enjoy mountain flowers in spring, escape the heat in summer, admire red leaves in autumn, and see snow in winter. Save this guide, pick a good day, and come to Henan for a healing journey through the cliffside gallery~✨

Popular summer spots are packed with people, but there are some underrated destinations where August and September are the best times to visit. Just 2–3 hours by high-speed train, you can enjoy everything from water fun to nature and history. The best part is—fewer crowds, cooler weather, and less hassle for parents. 01 Qiannan | Guizhou Enter Libo Zhangjiang at 8 AM. The mist hasn’t lifted yet, and the water is as green as glass. ⏰ Arrive at Xiaoqikong before 9 AM. The ancient bridge is almost empty, perfect for photos. Walk down the boardwalk and the sound of the 68-step waterfall drowns out all stress. 🍜 Have lunch at a nearby Buyi village with their famous sour fish, freshly caught and perfectly tangy. ⚠️ The sun is strong around 2–3 PM, and the waterfall area reflects light. It’s best to nap at the guesthouse or take a boat ride at Daqikong—the cave is as cool as air conditioning. Come back around 6 PM when the light filters through the bamboo forest just right. 02 Heyuan | Guangdong The breeze at Wanlv Lake instantly relaxes you. 📍 Take a boat from Jinghuayuan Pier to Longfeng Island. The lake is as vast as the sea but the water is fresh and sweet. 🍜 Don’t rush after getting off the boat. There’s a snack stall selling Hakka stuffed tofu, crispy on the outside and piping hot inside. ⏰ After 4 PM, the sunlight softens. Rent an electric bike and ride along the lake road to Shuiyue Bay, where you can soak your feet in the water. ⚠️ Don’t wear flip-flops on the hiking trail; the steps are slippery. Families with kids should head to the children’s water park next to Wanlv Lake, which has shaded shallow pools where adults can relax. 03 Xianyang | Shaanxi Qianling and Yuanjia Village—one shows Tang Dynasty grandeur, the other local charm. Which to choose? Take elders to Qianling: stroll the spirit way and stone statues on flat paths that are easy on the knees. The guide’s stories are more vivid than textbooks. 🍜 At the scenic area entrance, try the spicy guokui bread, fragrant and just 5 yuan each. For kids, Yuanjia Village’s Guanzhong Impression offers hands-on fun: turn into alleys where the oil pops as fresh fried oil cakes come out crispy outside and chewy inside. 📍 You can grind soy milk and make noodles yourself. Kids can play all afternoon. ⚠️ Yuanjia Village gets crowded on weekend afternoons. Arrive before 10 AM for more space and easier parking. 04 Lianyungang | Jiangsu Huaguo Mountain and Liandao Island—one mountain, one sea, all in one day. 📍 Climb Huaguo Mountain in the morning. Take the shuttle from the gate to Yunu Peak to save energy. The water curtain in front of the Water Curtain Cave really splashes clothes, and kids love it. ⏰ After lunch, head down and eat seafood noodles at Xugou Seafood Food City, with generous clams and shrimp. In the afternoon, go to Liandao. The sand at Dashawan Beach is fine, and the foot wash pool is free. ⚠️ The sea breeze cools down after 5 PM. Bring a jacket. 🚄 Taxi from Lianyungang Station to Huaguo Mountain costs about 30 yuan, to Liandao about 50 yuan. For a half-day trip, staying at Xugou Hotel is most convenient. 05 Dehong | Yunnan Menghuan Great Golden Pagoda is golden by day and orange-red at dusk. 📍 Walk up the steps from the base. Each level has different Buddha murals to admire slowly. 🍜 Nearby stalls sell puluda, coconut milk with crispy bread, sweet but not greasy. ⏰ The best time to visit is 6:30 PM. As the sky darkens and the pagoda lights up, the whole Mangshi quiets down. ⚠️ You must remove shoes to enter the pagoda. The floor is hot, so thick socks are recommended. Don’t rush in the morning with kids—it’s too hot. Come after 4 PM and visit the ethnic costume shop at the base, where you can rent a Dai outfit for 10 yuan. 06 Putian | Fujian Meizhou Island Mazu cultural tourism area has a salty sea breeze mixed with incense and seaweed scents. 📍 Take the ferry from Wenjia Pier. It runs every 15 minutes. 🍜 Behind the Mazu Temple is a snack street where oyster omelets are made fresh, with sweet potato starch coating the oysters, crispy outside and tender inside. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM at the Mazu ancestral temple to avoid crowds and hear the tide sounds and chanting. ⚠️ The sun is strong after 2 PM. Don’t stand long in the square. Visit the Mazu cultural exhibition hall for air conditioning and maritime models. Families can go to Ewei Shenshi Park, where natural sea caves are fun to explore and more interesting than the beach. 07 Zhangye | Gansu The colorful Danxia landform looks like two different worlds in the morning and evening. 📍 Go straight to viewing platform 4 for the richest colors, like a spilled paint palette. ⏰ It opens at 6:30 AM. The slanting light makes the red stripes glow. 🍜 At the entrance, try apricot peel water, sweet and sour to cool you down, 5 yuan a cup. Zhangye Great Buddha Temple is in town. The indoor wooden clay reclining Buddha is shaded, and kids can enjoy the murals at their own pace. ⚠️ Matisi Temple is on a mountain with winding roads that can cause motion sickness. Bring plastic bags just in case. Lixian Ancient City is westward and can be skipped if short on time. Danxia and the Great Buddha Temple are enough for a day. 08 Xinxiang | Henan Baoquan Tourist Area and Bali Valley are both great for canyon water fun. Baoquan is more family-friendly, Bali Valley is wilder. 📍 Baoquan’s shallow water area is right at the mountain base with gentle currents where kids can splash and catch small fish. 🍜 The cold noodle stall inside the park has crunchy cucumber strips and fragrant chili oil. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM to avoid crowds and sun. Bali Valley’s mountain trail is longer and leads to the base of Tianhe Waterfall, where the mist soaks you even with an umbrella. ⚠️ For elders and kids, it’s best to stick to Baoquan’s flat canyon trail with no climbing and return the same way. 🚄 Taxi from Xinxiang East Station to Baoquan costs about 40 yuan, to Bali Valley about 50 yuan. These less popular small towns are perfect for avoiding summer crowds. They’re cool, uncrowded, and offer great value. Which one do you most want to take your kids to this year? Share in the comments, and I’ll help you plan your route.

Traveling with kids during summer break, the biggest worries are the heat and the crowds. The more popular the city, the more it feels like a steam room in July and August. On the other hand, some places are clearly cool, quiet, and affordable, yet rarely mentioned. Here are 8 spots, from grasslands to canyons, from ancient towns to mountain peaks. The farthest is just a 3-hour high-speed train ride away, and temperatures can be over 10 degrees cooler than the city in a single day. No need to fight for flight seats, kids can run and play freely, and adults can catch their breath. 1️⃣ Tongren City | Guizhou When visiting Mount Fanjing, don’t plan a same-day round trip. A smarter way is to stay overnight at the foot of the mountain. 📍 Zhaisha Dong Village is a good base with many affordable guesthouses. Arrive at the scenic area entrance before 7 AM the next day to catch the first cable car up. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, Tongren guoba noodles cost 5 yuan a bowl. Kids enjoy watching the vendor make the noodles while eating. ⚠️ If it rains, the summit will be foggy and visibility poor. Instead, head to Yamugou at the foot of the mountain. Walk along the shallow creek where kids can splash and play. After 3 PM, the light is best; the Red Cloud Golden Summit glows with a golden hue, perfect for photos without filters. 🎫 Tickets and cable car rides should be booked in advance, following the official daily announcements. 2️⃣ Xinxiang City | Henan For summer escapes in Henan, many head straight to Luanchuan, overlooking the southern Taihang Mountains. 📍 Baoquan Tourist Area is a water play spot. During summer, there’s a water-splashing festival where kids run around with water guns while adults relax soaking their feet in shallow water. ⚠️ Key tip: don’t wear flip-flops on the glass plank walkways—they’re slippery, and the glass gets hot under the sun. The hottest time is 1 PM to 3 PM; escape the heat in the indoor Baoquan Secret Exhibition Hall. If time allows, visit Baligou the next day. 🚄 It’s best to charter a car from Xinxiang East Station for about 80 yuan one way. 🕐 Enter Baligou after 5 PM when the sun is behind the mountains. Walking along the plank path, the breeze carries moisture, dropping the temperature by 5 degrees. 3️⃣ Xilingol League | Inner Mongolia If you want a grassland experience, avoid the crowded Hulunbuir. 📍 Wulagai Grassland is where the Nine-Bend Bay is located. It’s so quiet you might not see another car in half an hour. The best way is to hire a local herder’s vehicle to find wildflower spots. ⏰ After 4 PM, the grassland light softens. Kids can ride horses for 30 yuan per short ride. ⚠️ Nights have a big temperature drop. Bring a warm jacket. If staying in a yurt, confirm in advance if there’s heating and a private bathroom. 🍜 Locals dip hand-cut meat in chive flower sauce. If kids find the flavor strong, milk tea is a popular alternative. 4️⃣ Yulin City | Shaanxi Don’t just know Yan’an. The Wave Valley in Yulin is truly breathtaking, especially for kids—the red sandstone looks like Mars. 📍 Visit early in summer, entering the park by 7:30 AM. Walking through the One-Line Sky takes about an hour. ⚠️ After 10 AM, the sun heats the rocks enough to fry an egg. You must return to the hotel to rest. In the afternoon, switch to Red Stone Gorge, which has a river with gentle currents where kids can catch fish in shallow water. 🍜 For lunch, try lamb noodles in Jia County town. Avoid the restaurant at Red Stone Gorge entrance—it’s expensive and portions are small. If kids are tired, find a shady spot by the river, lay out a picnic mat, and relax all afternoon. 🚄 Yulin to Wave Valley is far; a day charter is recommended. 5️⃣ Handan City | Hebei Handan, formerly Zhao Capital, is not just about history when visiting Guangfu Ancient Town with kids—it’s a summer escape. 📍 Outside the ancient town is a moat full of blooming lotus flowers in summer. The best route is entering from the south gate, walking along the city wall to the east gate, enjoying the breeze from the water. 🍜 For lunch, try Guangfu crispy fish. The old restaurant near the north gate is the most authentic. The fish bones are crispy, so kids can eat it safely. If it gets too hot in the afternoon, drive 40 minutes to Nuwa Palace. The mountain is low but shaded by many trees, with covered walkways. ⚠️ No need to take the cable car at Nuwa Palace; the line is long, and it’s a 30-minute walk to the top. 🎫 Guangfu Ancient Town is free, but city wall access requires a ticket, following official daily announcements. 6️⃣ Jincheng City | Shanxi Huangcheng Xiangfu is the former residence of Chen Tingjing, a castle-like courtyard built on a hillside. The best part is it has indoor air conditioning. 📍 Visit before 10 AM in summer. Start with the outer city. At 9:30 AM, there’s a city opening ceremony that kids find fascinating. 🍜 At the entrance, try Yangcheng grilled liver for 5 yuan a serving. Kids who like pork liver can give it a try. ⚠️ Key tip: at noon, enter the inner city exhibition hall. It’s cool inside, and the artifacts and stories are more interesting than wandering outside. After 3 PM, go to the city wall for panoramic views. The castle bricks glow golden in backlight. 🚄 After arriving at Jincheng East Station by high-speed train, take a 30-minute taxi ride. 7️⃣ Mianyang City | Sichuan Mianyang is underrated, especially Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area. It’s not a typical summer escape but a place for kids to learn and explore. 📍 Qiang City itself is a huge living museum of Qiang culture. You can let kids try Qiang embroidery for a few dozen yuan per hour. It’s okay if their stitching is messy. ⏰ The afternoon is better for visiting nearby Jina Qiang Village, where a cool stream runs through the village. Kids can take off their shoes and splash in the water. 🍜 Try the potato glutinous rice cakes at the Qiang City entrance. The dipping sauce is sour and spicy, more interesting than regular fries. ⚠️ For souvenirs, shops at the exit are more expensive than those at the entrance. It’s better to buy in the old Beichuan town. 🎫 Beichuan Qiang City is free, following official daily announcements. 8️⃣ Fuzhou City | Jiangxi Dajue Mountain in Fuzhou is the only recommended hiking spot that’s not hot. 📍 Half of Dajue Mountain is canyon and rafting. If your child is tall enough (over 1.3 meters), go straight for canyon rafting. The mountain shade keeps you out of direct sun. For smaller kids, take the sightseeing bus to Dajueyan Temple. Behind the temple is a natural waterfall with mist that cools the air by 7–8 degrees. 🍜 The noodle shop at the summit charges 10 yuan a bowl. The noodles are average, but the broth is flavorful. ⚠️ Rafting departure is between 2 PM and 4 PM. Earlier, the water is cold; later, the light is insufficient. 🚄 There’s a direct shuttle from Fuzhou Station to the scenic area, about 40 minutes. 🎫 It’s best to buy tickets for admission and rafting separately. Rafting stops if it rains, so check the weather in advance. August isn’t a month to avoid going out; it’s about choosing the right places. Among these spots, if your kids are older and can walk, I highly recommend Yulin and Xilingol—one offers geological wonders with river wading, the other a full grassland experience to stretch out. If your kids are younger and tire easily, Tongren and Xinxiang are the easiest for parents. Have you visited any underrated summer escapes this year? Share your experiences in the comments.

Everyone says traveling with kids during summer vacation is a “trial by fire”: hot, tiring, and crowded, with no exceptions. But if you switch your destination to these places, the whole vibe changes—cooler than summer, fewer crowds, and just a two- or three-hour high-speed train ride away. Best of all, the kids can play wildly while you relax in the shade with a cup of tea, no stress for mom. 01 Lu’an | Anhui ⏰ At 8 AM, the mist at the foot of Tiantangzhai Mountain hasn’t lifted yet, and the temperature feels just above 20℃. Take the kids on the waterfall trail, which is a gentle boardwalk the whole way, stroller-friendly. Every few hundred meters there’s a pool, and kids won’t want to move once they see the water. Bring a small net to catch fish for a long time. ⚠️ Remember to have the kids wear quick-dry shoes. The stone steps are often mossy, and regular sandals can be slippery. Have lunch back in town at any local restaurant with a hanging pot—it’s delicious. Rest until 3 PM, then take a boat ride on Wanfo Lake. 📍 When the boat reaches the center of the lake, the wind is so strong it blows off your hat, and the heat disappears completely. The whole hike only climbs about 100 meters, and a 4-year-old can walk down on their own without trouble. 02 Changde | Hunan If you just want to relax, Taohuayuan Scenic Area lets you enjoy a comfortable day. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM and take the sightseeing bus to Qingu. Kids can see free-range sika deer as soon as they get off. 🍜 There’s a tea house in the park serving ground tea in wooden bowls. Adults drink green tea to cool off, kids have rice soaked in crispy puffed rice. Even sweating a lot, the kids stay happy. ⚠️ Avoid walking around Wuliu Lake at noon—the sun is direct with no shade. If you have kids, go to Taohuashan instead, where the shade is continuous and the stone paths are cool. At 3 PM, there’s a shadow puppet show under the old stage, where the breeze can make you drowsy. 03 Longnan | Gansu In Guan’egou, the water is ice cold in summer. 📍 Take the shuttle bus straight to the deepest part of the valley, then walk back downhill the whole way, so no knee strain with kids. The creek flows right by your feet. If you squat down to wash your hands, the cold spreads up your arms to your shoulders. Kids will jump into the shallow water barefoot. ⚠️ The stones are slippery, so wear water shoes. After leaving the valley, drive half an hour to Tianchi in Wen County. The light is best at 4 PM. The lake water is as green as jelly, and the boardwalk around the lake takes only half an hour. On the way, you might meet villagers herding sheep, with lambs running behind their mothers. Kids will chase after them all the way. 04 Baoshan | Yunnan Tengchong is a place to slow down. ⚠️ Don’t take kids up Yunfeng Mountain in Tengchong—the stone steps are steep and narrow. Instead, go to Heshun Ancient Town, which is stroller-friendly. 📍 Walk through the laundry pavilion and find a small alley lined with old houses covered in bougainvillea vines. Petals fall on the kids’ heads in the breeze. 🍜 Have lunch at Cun’s bean noodles, served cold and slippery going down. In the afternoon, let the kids nap at the inn in the ancient town while adults go paddle grass rafts at Beihai Wetland. ⏰ At 5 PM, head to the hot springs. The foot bath pools are less crowded. Put the kids’ feet in the water—they’ll giggle at the heat. Buy a skewer of grass-woven eggs cooked in the spring water, with runny yolks. 05 Anshan | Liaoning Qianshan isn’t tall, but there are many steps, so strollers aren’t practical. If your child is under 5, it’s best to take the cable car up. ⏰ Arrive at the entrance by 6:30 AM when it’s quiet. The birdsong is louder than the tourists. At the foot of Mile Peak is a shallow creek just above ankle depth. Kids can squat and flip stones looking for crabs for an hour. 🍜 After coming down, go to the city to try “nanguo pear dumplings,” which are sweet. Kids can eat seven or eight at once. ⚠️ Don’t hike at noon—the stones are heated through and feel hot to the touch. Rest at the hotel, then go to 219 Park in the evening. The wind by the lake rustles the willow leaves, and kids can dig in the sandpit while you relax on a bench. 06 Baoji | Shaanxi The temperature difference on Taibai Mountain can be over 10 degrees in one day. ⏰ In the morning at the foot of the mountain, it’s short sleeves. Take the cable car up to Tianyuan Dili, where you’ll need a jacket. Kids get excited seeing clouds floating below their feet and jump with joy. ⚠️ Don’t take kids to Dayehai at 3,700 meters elevation. Even adults get out of breath if they walk fast. Just take photos and play in the snow at Tianyuan Dili for half an hour. 🍜 After descending, eat a bowl of fragrant sauced noodles near Famen Temple. The noodles are as wide as chive leaves, sour and spicy to whet your appetite. In the evening, drive to Guanshan Grassland. The grass smells fresh at dusk, and kids can chase sheep on the grass. ⚠️ The grassland mosquitoes are fierce, so wear long pants and use insect repellent. 07 Leshan | Sichuan Taking kids to see the giant Buddha can be exhausting if you take the wrong path. 📍 The right route is to enter from the north gate and walk down the winding plank road, which is right next to the Buddha’s shoulder. Kids can almost “touch” the Buddha’s head. ⏰ Enter at 8:30 AM to avoid long lines. ⚠️ Don’t enter from the south gate—there are so many steps you’ll question your sanity. After seeing the Buddha, go straight to Mount Emei, but stay at the foot of the mountain, not the summit. 📍 In the morning, visit Qingyin Pavilion. The creek water is icy cold. Kids put their feet in, then quickly pull them out, then put them back again. Monkeys may suddenly jump down from trees to snatch snacks, so watch the plastic bags kids hold. 08 Xinxiang | Henan Baoquan Tourist Area was made for summer. Mountain spring water flows down the cliff, and walking in the mist feels like air conditioning. Take kids to the shallow water area to play with water guns. The water only reaches their knees, so no worries if they fall. ⚠️ Don’t wear white clothes. When wet from the mist, they become see-through, and people might accidentally get in your shot—you know what we mean. 🍜 Have a bowl of farmhouse mixed noodles for lunch, topped with garlic sauce and shredded cucumber—refreshing. In the afternoon, head to Baligou and walk the Peach Blossom Bay side, shaded by trees the whole way. The mist from the waterfall feels cool even from a distance. Let kids stand under the waterfall for a minute. Their clothes will be half wet, so change into dry ones quickly to avoid catching a cold. These 8 places all have well-developed walking boardwalks and scenic transport. The information is enough to plan a whole summer vacation. When traveling with kids, first check the official public accounts for daily announcements. Ticket reservations and other info are updated in real time. Join the comments and tell us which one you want to visit first? Taohuayuan Scenic Area - Taohuashan Scenic Area

Come to Baoquan in Xinxiang for summer fun and water activities. Yuxi homestay is a convenient and atmospheric choice. It is located in Gezhen Village, Bopi Town, just 1.1 km from the Baoquan scenic area transfer center, a 7-minute drive away. The owner offers free pick-up and drop-off within 5 km, so you don’t have to get up early to catch the morning at the scenic area. It’s only 200 meters from Baoquan camping town, perfect for a relaxing evening walk. Free parking is available on site, with new energy vehicle charging stations, making it easy for self-driving travelers. The homestay is a newly renovated minimalist white building in 2025, nestled by the mountain and creek. The courtyard is surrounded by a stream, and the panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows face the Taihang Mountains. The window side, terrace, and creekside are natural spots for travel photos. Morning mountain mist and evening sunset mountain views make for great shots. There are various room types: mountain view king rooms for couples, family rooms with slides for parents and kids, and luxury private hot spring rooms for maximum comfort. The entire house features smart temperature control, a giant projector, instant hot water dispensers, and bathrooms with dry and wet separation. Linens are changed for each guest, and hygiene is excellent. The homestay has its own restaurant, specializing in local wild vegetables and farmhouse dishes with generous portions. Breakfast includes multigrain porridge, farm eggs, and handmade pastries. Recommended two-day itinerary: Day 1 check in to the homestay, then visit the Grand Canyon in the afternoon to see Yulin Dam, Emerald Sea, and Jianlong Waterfall, play in the shallow water and take photos. Return to the homestay in the evening to rest and enjoy a stroll by the creek. Day 2 take the cable car up to Yatianxia, visit the Xiangyun viewing platform and cliff walkway, try high-altitude activities, then return in the afternoon. Tips: It’s more cost-effective to buy a two-day double park pass first. There are many mosquitoes in the mountains in summer, so bring mosquito repellent. Prepare slippers and a change of clothes for water activities. Prices in the scenic area are relatively high, so you can buy snacks and drinks around the homestay. Whether for couple travel photography or family summer escape, Yuxi homestay is close to the scenic area and well-equipped, making it a high-value lodging choice for Baoquan visits.