April Getaway | Travel Guide to 4 Off-the-Beaten-Path Cities

| Travel Guide to 4 Off-the-Beaten-Path Cities. Hey everyone👋, April's mild weather makes it perfect for traveling! Instead of crowded tourist hotspots, let's explore 4 lesser-known yet fascinating cities. Join me on this journey to discover these hidden gems. Mangshi 📍Mangshi, a border town in Yunnan with exotic charm, is like a forgotten paradise. With its year-round warm climate and especially pleasant April sunshine, the city is rich in Dai and Jingpo ethnic cultures, unique cuisine, and affordable prices, offering an incredibly relaxing travel experience. Must-Visit Attractions: • Menghuan Golden Pagoda: This Southeast Asian-style golden pagoda stands majestically on Mount Leiyarang, overlooking the entire city. It's particularly stunning at sunset when the golden rays illuminate the pagoda, creating perfect photo opportunities📷. • Tree-Wrapped Pagoda: A remarkable blend of nature and culture where a large banyan tree embraces an ancient pagoda, telling stories of time gone by in its peaceful, mysterious setting. Travel Tips: • Transportation: Fly to Kunming first, then take a connecting flight to Mangshi. Local taxis are convenient and affordable for getting around while experiencing local culture. • Accommodation: Stay in the city center for easy access to attractions. There are various hotel options with great value for money. • Food: Must-try Dai-style finger rice - an entertaining hands-on dining experience with grilled meat, vegetables, and fruits. Also try Paoluda, a delicious dessert of crispy bread soaked in coconut milk. Lishui 📍Lishui in Zhejiang is a hidden gem in southern Zhejiang. In April, it's lush with greenery and misty mountains, like a serene paradise with the gentle charm typical of Jiangnan water towns. Must-Visit Attractions: • Xiandu Scenic Area: A popular filming location for Chinese fantasy dramas. The stone bridge at Zhutan Mountain with farmers leading their cattle through the morning mist creates perfect photo opportunities. The towering Dinghu Peak showcases nature's magnificent craftsmanship. • Guyan Painting Village: Ancient streets, pavilions, and wharfs alongside thousand-year-old camphor trees. With boats dotting the river and artists sketching along the shore, it's immersed in artistic atmosphere and poetic Jiangnan charm. Travel Tips: • Transportation: Take a high-speed train to Lishui, then bus or taxi to scenic spots. Inter-scenic area shuttles are available. • Accommodation: Stay in guesthouses near scenic areas to enjoy fresh mountain air and natural beauty first thing in the morning. • Food: Don't miss Jinyun pancakes with their perfect blend of preserved vegetables and meat in crispy shells. Also try Tu Suo noodles, which are hair-thin with a smooth texture. Pingtan 📍Pingtan, Fujian, is mainland China's closest point to Taiwan. In April, gentle sea breezes and magical blue tears (bioluminescent algae) create a fairytale-like scene, complemented by unique stone houses showing distinct island characteristics. Must-Visit Attractions: • Houyan Island: Facing Taiwan across the strait, marked by the iconic "68 Nautical Miles" stone monument. The island features unique rock formations and strong sea breezes, perfect for gazing across the strait. • Changjiang'ao Wind Farm: White windmills stand gracefully along the beach, turning slowly in the sea breeze. At sunset, the golden light on the windmills and beach creates a spectacular view, making it a photographer's paradise. Travel Tips: • Transportation: Travel to Fuzhou first, then take a high-speed train or bus to Pingtan. Rent an electric scooter on the island for convenient sightseeing. • Accommodation: Stay near Longfengtou Beach to fall asleep to ocean waves and enjoy easy access to attractions. • Food: Try the sturgeon rice with glutinous rice infused with crab flavors, and oyster pancakes that are crispy outside and tender inside. Kashgar 📍Kashgar, Xinjiang, a pearl of the Silk Road, full of mysterious Western Region charm. In April, the weather is perfect to explore the earth-toned buildings in the old city and donkey carts, immersing yourself in rich ethnic culture that takes you back to the prosperous ancient Silk Road. Must-Visit Attractions: • Kashgar Old City: A maze of alleys with beautiful Uyghur architecture and traditional craft shops. You might catch the sound of hand drums and encounter a lively ethnic dance performance💃. • Gaotai Residences: Ancient dwellings built on high platforms. Though some buildings are under renovation, you can still glimpse traces of historical life and feel the charm of ages past. Travel Tips: • Transportation: Fly directly to Kashgar, the airport is close to downtown. Take taxis around the city, walk within the old city. • Accommodation: Stay near the old city for convenience and enjoy the brilliant night views. • Food: Must-try baked buns with crispy exterior and juicy filling, and Gangzi lamb - tender meat in hot soup that's warming and delicious. Everyone, these 4 lesser-known cities each have their unique charm. Set off in April, avoid the crowds, and discover different kinds of beauty!💕