Looking for places with stunning views that haven’t been overrun by tourists or commercialized yet? I’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of some incredible, off-the-beaten-path destinations in China.
1. Eastern Tianshan, Xinjiang (东天山)
A Slice of Everything Xinjiang Has to Offer
This is a favorite weekend getaway for people who actually live in Xinjiang, and it’s just an hour’s drive from Urumqi. You can ride horses on the grasslands, go dune bashing in the desert, and explore ancient Silk Road sites in Turpan. It’s pretty amazing to go from snowy mountains to the desert in a single day. It’s a real hidden treasure because you get the full Xinjiang experience with way fewer tourists.
2. Hotan, Southern Xinjiang (和田)
Experience the Real Deal of Southern Xinjiang Culture
In Hotan, you can drive just 30 kilometers and see the landscape change from desert to oasis, then to grasslands, and finally end up at the foot of a snow-capped mountain. This kind of variety in one place is something you won’t find anywhere else in China. You can hunt for authentic Hotan jade and handmade carpets at the Hotan Grand Bazaar (和田大巴扎), and the night markets are packed with amazing local food. It’s the perfect place to experience the authentic, untouched culture of Southern Xinjiang.
3. Gannan, Gansu (甘南)
A Taste of Tibet Without the High Altitude
If you want to experience Tibetan culture but are worried about altitude sickness, Gannan is the perfect starting point. It’s a Tibetan autonomous prefecture with a much lower altitude, making it easier to acclimate to than Tibet or Western Sichuan. You have to try riding a horse through the waters at the source of the Bailong River (白龙江)—it’s a raw, back-to-nature experience that’s hard to find these days. You should go now and enjoy the peace and quiet before the new high-speed train to Gannan is finished.
4. Dandao Secret Realm, Western Sichuan (丹道秘境)
A Hidden Road Trip Prized by Veteran Explorers
The scenery here is just as stunning as the famous Yading Nature Reserve, but it’s more rugged and there’s no entrance fee. The southern route offers views of the snow-capped mountains of Dangling (党岭) and the flower-filled grasslands of Yuke (玉科草原). The northern route is even wilder, and you might even spot some marmots as you drive over the mountain passes. Around any corner, you could stumble upon a quiet forest canyon all to yourself. It’s the perfect place for a road trip or a small group tour to get away from the crowds.
5. Mangshi, Yunnan (芒市)
A Laid-Back Alternative to Xishuangbanna
Think of Mangshi as the chill version of Xishuangbanna. It’s warm all year round and has lush tropical rainforests, hot springs, and a lively Water-Splashing Festival, just like its more famous counterpart. But instead of crowds, you’ll find a more relaxed vibe here. You can just hang out in a café in town and watch the world go by. And don’t miss out on all the delicious local snacks from this border town!
6. Lesser Khingan Mountains, Heilongjiang (小兴安岭)
Breathe Deep in a Giant Forest Oxygen Bar
This area is almost completely covered in forest and is beautiful in every season. In winter, you’ll see frosted trees and a snowy wonderland. In summer, it’s a cool escape from the heat, and in autumn, the forests are a riot of color. The fall foliage around China’s National Day holiday is absolutely breathtaking. You can take a road trip to see some of the most beautiful roads in northern China or visit the Jinshan Deer Park (金山鹿苑) to feed the deer. It’s the perfect spot if you’re looking to escape the city and get back to nature.