Tired of the crowds during the holidays?
Tired of seeing the same sights?
Then join me in exploring the lesser-known secrets of China!
Perhaps, you have never heard of their names, but their beauty is definitely worth your trek to savor.
Gansu · Zagana
Zhagana, which means "stone box" in Tibetan.
It is tucked away in Diebe County, Gansu Province, surrounded by mountains and cliffs, like a huge stone box, isolating the hustle and bustle of the world.
There are dense primeval forests, clear streams, and ancient Tibetan villages, which retain the most primitive natural features and cultural customs.
The first time I saw Zagana, I was struck by its tranquility and mystery.
Spiraling up along the winding mountain road, a huge canyon suddenly opens up in front of you, and at the bottom of the canyon, the smoke of the Tibetan village rises, like a fairyland.
In Zagana, you can hike through the primeval forest and feel the breath of nature; You can visit ancient Tibetan villages and experience the original Tibetan culture; You can also sit quietly on the hillside and enjoy the magnificent mountain views.
Transportation: You can fly to Lanzhou first, then transfer to Diebe County by car, and finally charter a bus to Zagana.
Accommodation: The accommodation conditions in Zagana are relatively simple, mainly homestays.
Food: You can taste local Tibetan food, such as tsamba, butter tea, yak meat, etc.
Xinjiang · Ili Turgen Xinghuagou
Every spring, when the first spring breeze blows through the Ili River Valley, the apricot blossom ditch in Turgen, which has been sleeping for a winter, wakes up, and the apricot blossoms all over the mountains and fields bloom one after another, decorating the entire valley into a sea of pink.
Being in this sea of flowers is like entering a fairy tale world.
The breeze blows, and the petals fall one after another, like a pink snow, which is extremely romantic.
In addition to cherry blossom viewing, you can also enjoy horseback riding, hiking, and experiencing the unique charm of the Ili River Valley.
Transportation: You can fly to Yining first, and then transfer to a car to Turgen Xinghuagou.
The best time to see the flowers is from mid-April to early May.
Accommodation: You can live in the nearby city of Yining, there are many choices.
Cuisine: Yili's cuisine is dominated by Xinjiang cuisine, with kebabs, pilaf, naan, etc. all must-try.
Zhoushan Bird and Flower Island, · Province, Zhejiang
Bird and Flower Island, located at the northernmost tip of the Zhoushan archipelago in Zhejiang, is an island paradise away from the hustle and bustle.
With its crystal clear waters, fine sandy beaches and oddly shaped reefs, it's the perfect place for a relaxing getaway.
Most of the island's inhabitants make a living from fishing, and the pace of life is slow and leisurely.
You can stroll on the beach and listen to the sound of the waves; You can also go out to sea to fish and experience the life of fishermen; You can also lie on a beach chair and soak up the sun.
In the evening, the sun sets, dyeing the entire sky a golden red, which is beautiful.
Transportation: You can take a ferry from Zhoushan Island to Bird and Flower Island.
Accommodation: There are various types of B&Bs and hotels to choose from on the island.
Food: You can taste fresh seafood such as pike crab, pipi shrimp, sea urchin, etc.
Yunnan · Bingzhongluo
Bingzhongluo, located in Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan, is a paradise off the beaten track.
There are magnificent snow-capped mountains, the surging Nu River, and ancient villages, which retain the most primitive natural features and cultural customs.
In Bingzhongluo, you can hike through the primeval forest and feel the magic of nature; You can float on the Nu River and experience a thrilling journey; You can also visit the ancient village and learn about the culture of the Lisu people.
There is no hustle and bustle of the city, only a quiet and peaceful life.
Transportation: You can fly to Kunming first, then transfer to Liuku, and finally charter a bus to Bingzhongluo.
Accommodation: The accommodation conditions in Bingzhongluo are relatively simple, mainly homestays.
Food: You can taste the local characteristics of Lisu cuisine.
Sichuan · Dangling
Dangling, located in Danba County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan, is a little-known hiking paradise.
With magnificent snow-capped mountains, dense forests, crystal clear lakes, and ancient Tibetan villages, it is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
In Dangling, you can hike through the primeval forest and enjoy the magnificent snow-capped mountain scenery; You can camp by the lake and feel the sparkle of the starry sky; You can also soak in the hot springs and relax.
There is no hustle and bustle of the city, only quiet and peaceful nature.
Transportation: You can fly to Chengdu first, then transfer to Danba County by car, and finally charter a bus to Dangling.
Accommodation: The accommodation conditions in Dangling are relatively simple, mainly camping and homestays.
Food: You can taste local Tibetan food.