Skip the crowded hotspots! These four lesser-known cities are super fun, and the last one is a must-visit

Hey travel buddies! Want a budget-friendly trip from July to September without the crowds? Check out Jinchang, Shuangyashan, Ya'an, and Zhongwei – these hidden gems offer amazing experiences at great value. Bookmark this now! 👇 📍Jinchang Known as China's "Nickel Capital," Jinchang is also a romantic "Flower City of the West" with budget-friendly options perfect for students! ✅• Jinchuan National Mine Park: Home to China's largest mining pit (over 300m deep), this industrial-style site is ideal for adventure seekers. Best part? Free admission! ✅• Jinshui Lake Park: Dubbed "East Lake," it captures the charm of Jiangnan water towns. Stroll by the lake, enjoy stunning sunsets – all for free. ✅• Liqian Ancient City: Legend says Roman soldiers settled here. Explore its unique blend of Roman and Chinese classical architecture at an affordable ticket price. 🍜Food recs: Hexuan Spicy Hot Pot (locals' favorite, delicious & cheap); Yongchang Lamb with Rolled Dough (tender meat, chewy rolls). 📍Shuangyashan This northeastern city boasts breathtaking natural scenery and cool summer escapes at low costs! ✅• Qingshan National Forest Park: Discover forest flora/fauna, climb Shifo Mountain for panoramic views of red pine forests – a perfect summer retreat with cheap tickets. ✅• Anbang River National Wetland Park: A typical marsh wetland in Northeast China's Three Rivers region. Spot rare birds in vast reed marshes or take a boat tour – all free! ✅• Qixing Peak National Forest Park: The highest peak in Sanjiang Plain features primitive red pine forests and anti-Japanese coalition relics. Known as "Little Huashan of the Northeast," its thrilling hikes come at great value. 🍜Food recs: Iron Pot Stew (must-try goose/fish stew with cornbread); Heilongjiang Fish Banquet (exceptionally fresh fish). 📍Ya'an ❗️Average summer temp: 23°C – perfect for summer escapes, study trips, and fruit picking! ✅• Bifeng Gorge: An ecological valley packed with negative oxygen ions and cascading waterfalls – like entering a paradise at reasonable ticket prices. ✅• Shangli Ancient Town: Wade in cool streams, wander cobblestone paths, and soak in the town's tranquil charm – free to explore. ✅• Longcanggou Diecui Stream: Walk lengthy boardwalks listening to babbling brooks for ultimate relaxation (great-value tickets). 🍜Food recs: Ya Fish Casserole (tender fish, rich broth); Hanyuan Pepper Chicken (spicy and aromatic). 📍Zhongwei Where desert meets Yellow River – experience unique northwestern landscapes with affordable activities! ✅• Shapotou: Witness "Lone smoke in vast desert, round sunset over long river" firsthand. Ride camels, sandboard, or try Yellow River ziplining – combo tickets offer best deals. ✅• Route 66: An endless road to the Gobi Desert – free photo hotspot for western-style cowboy shots. ✅• Tengger Desert Camping: Light hiking, ATV rides, bonfire parties under desert sunsets and starry skies – various camping options available. 🍜🍜Food recs: Hand-torn Lamb (succulent meat); Spicy Paste (must-try local specialty). Each city has unique charms, and July-September is the perfect time to visit. Gather your friends for an epic budget adventure! 💖 Questions? Drop them below – we'll reply!