Great Summer Getaway Destinations

Changbai Mountain Travel Guide • Attractions: Changbai Mountain Scenic Area is divided into three main regions—West Slope, North Slope, and South Slope—with no direct access between them. The North Slope features concentrated attractions like Heaven Lake, Waterfalls, Hot Springs, Small Heaven Lake, Green Abyss Pool, and Underground Forest. The West Slope requires climbing 1,442 steps to see a panoramic view of Heaven Lake, along with attractions like Jinjiang Grand Canyon and Alpine Garden. • Accommodation: We recommend staying in Erdaobaihe Town, which is close to the scenic area and offers well-developed dining and transportation facilities. • Tips: Umbrellas are prohibited on the mountain—bring lightweight raincoats instead. The winding mountain roads may cause motion sickness, so prepare medication in advance. Due to the high altitude of Heaven Lake, temperatures remain low even in summer, so pack a windproof jacket. Food prices in the scenic area are high, so consider bringing light meals and drinking water. Qinghai Lake Travel Guide • Attractions: Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area is the official main attraction with complete facilities, but tickets are expensive and crowded in peak season. Heima River is ideal for sunrise and sunset views, with free entry and only a 30-yuan sightseeing bus fee. Jinsha Bay is a hidden gem featuring grasslands, deserts, and lakes—a breathtaking sight. The Cliff offers a unique vantage point with its high elevation and proximity to the lake. • Accommodation: For luxury stays, consider Qinghai Lake View International Hotel with stunning lake views. Mid-range options include Vienna International Hotel (Qinghai Lake North Street Branch), while budget travelers can choose Tibetan-style lodgings like Qinghai Lake Zangqu Tribe Homestay. • Nearby Attractions: Don’t miss Chaka Salt Lake, Qinghai Tibetan Culture Museum, and Ta’er Monastery. Guizhou Travel Guide • Classic Itinerary: - Day 1: Arrive in Guiyang and explore Qianling Mountain Park. - Day 2: Visit Huangguoshu Waterfall, stroll through Doupotang, and walk behind the waterfall at Water Curtain Cave. - Day 3: Tour Libo’s Small Seven Arches (enter from West Gate, exit via East Gate), visiting Wolong Pond and Mandarin Duck Lake, then head to Xijiang Thousand Households Miao Village for night views. - Day 4: Experience Miao culture with "block-the-door" wine and long-table feasts, then travel to Zhenyuan Ancient Town and hike Shiping Mountain for a panoramic view. - Day 5: Explore Fanjingshan—take the cable car from the East Gate to visit Sky City, Mushroom Stone, and Old Golden Peak before returning to Guiyang. • Food Recommendations: Try local specialties like sour fish soup, lamb rice noodles, "silkworm baby" pancakes, and grilled dishes at Guiyang’s Qingyun Market or Erqi Road Snack Street. • Tips: Guizhou’s mountainous terrain means long travel times between attractions—plan accordingly. Some sites, like Fanjingshan, require advance ticket reservations, and hikers should prioritize safety.