In this fast-paced era, popular attractions are always crowded, and those unpopular cities hidden behind the hustle and bustle are like undisturbed paradises, quietly blooming with their own brilliance. Today, let's embark on an unusual journey to explore six of the country's most underrated destinations, both low-key and breathtakingly beautiful.
1. **Ankang** - Zeguo, a water town deep in Qinba
Ankang is located in the south of Shaanxi, a bright pearl between the Qinling Mountains and Bashan. The most unmissable place here is Yinghu Lake, a piece of clear water and blue sky surrounded by mountains. Take a small boat ride and swim in it, as if you are in a flowing landscape painting. Cuiping Island on the shore of the lake, lined with green trees, and quaint fishing villages on the island, make people feel the tranquility away from the hustle and bustle. In addition, the Nangong Mountain National Forest Park in Ankang attracts travelers seeking seclusion with its peculiar volcanic landforms, primeval forests and thousand-year-old temples.
2. **Quzhou** - Zhejiang's niche ancient rhyme
When it comes to Zhejiang, people often think of Hangzhou and Wuzhen first, but they don't know that the ancient city of Quzhou is also full of charm. Jianglang Mountain in Kecheng District, famous for the wonder of "Sanyi Stone", three stone peaks go straight into the sky, climb to the top and overlook, the rivers and mountains are picturesque, take in the panoramic view. And in Longyou, the underground labyrinthine Longyou Grottoes show the magic of ancient craftsmen, and each grotto hides a thousand-year-old secret, waiting for you to uncover.
3. **Zhangye** - the colorful world of Gansu
Zhangye, the name may be a little unfamiliar to many people, but it is a shining jewel on the Silk Road. Colorful Danxia National Geopark is the most gorgeous color palette of nature. Under the sun, the rolling hills take on a variety of colors such as red, yellow, orange, green, and gray, like a dreamy fairy tale world. In addition to the Danxia landform, Zhangye is also home to the Heihe, the second largest inland river in China, and the largest military horse farm in Asia, the Shandan Military Horse Farm, where natural scenery and cultural history are perfectly integrated.
4. **Guest** - Guangxi's hidden wonderland
Laibin, a small city in Guangxi, has a small reputation, but it hides many beautiful scenery that has not been disturbed by the outside world. Jinxiu Shengtang Mountain, known as the "first peak in Lingnan", is surrounded by clouds and mist, like a fairyland, here is the birthplace of Yao culture, tourists can not only enjoy the magnificent natural scenery, but also have an in-depth understanding of the customs of the Yao people. The hot springs in Xiangzhou are a good place to relax and unwind, the hot springs have excellent water quality, rich in a variety of minerals, soak in the hot springs, and the fatigue of the journey disappears in an instant.
5. **Haidong** - the eastern pearl of Qinghai
Qinghai Lake is famous, and Haidong City is like a girl hidden in the depths, quiet and mysterious. Xunhua Mengda Tianchi, like a pearl on the plateau, the water is clear, the surrounding forests are dense, the air is fresh, it is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts. As an important Buddhist holy place in Northwest China, Qutan Temple attracts many visitors with its exquisite architectural art and rich history and culture. Here, you can feel the majesty and mystery of Tibetan Buddhism up close.
6. **Jishou** - the gateway to Miaojiang in Hunan
Jishou, the capital of Xiangxi Autonomous Prefecture, is the gateway to the mysterious Miaojiang. The Dwarf Village Bridge, suspended above the Deram Grand Canyon, is not only an engineering marvel, but also an excellent location to enjoy the canyon scenery. Although the ancient city of Phoenix is not in Jishou, but the distance is very close, starting from Jishou, you will soon be able to reach this small city known as the most beautiful city in China, the quaint stilted building, the winding Tuojiang River, and the strong Miao family style, which makes people forget to return.
Each of these six cities has its own unique landscapes and stories, and while they are not as crowded as some of the most popular destinations, they offer a purer and more profound travel experience. In this neglected land, every scenery is worth slowing down and savoring. On your next trip, you might as well choose a lesser-traveled path to discover those seriously underrated beauties, so that the soul can be truly released and sublimated in the blend of nature and culture.