10 Places to Get off the Beaten Track in China
Whether you're an adventurous traveler or an expat looking to go beyond the typical tourist spots, these off the beaten track in China places are worth the journey.
📍 Quick Navigation: 10 Hidden Gems in China
Skip the crowded tourist trails. Click any off-the-beaten-path destination below to jump directly to it:
1. Fengjing Water Town, Shanghai
Everyone has heard of Zhujiajiao watertown on the outskirts of Shanghai, and the crowds show it. Get away from this tourist trap and instead visit Fengjing watertown, also in Shanghai. Stroll along stone bridges, take a boat ride through narrow canals, and discover traditional houses that feel like stepping back in time.
It’s quieter, more authentic, and perfect for travellers who want a taste of old China without the tourist rush.
We run a guided Fengjing day trip from Shanghai, making it easy to experience this picturesque town stress-free.
Authentic Watertown | Fengjing in Shanghai
2. Fenghuang Ancient Town, Hunan
Located in Hunan Province, Fenghuang Ancient Town is a well-preserved gem with vibrant wooden houses, ancient city walls, and a rich cultural heritage. The town comes alive at night with stunning views of illuminated buildings reflecting off the Tuojiang River. Stroll through its narrow streets, explore local shops, and immerse yourself in the town's timeless charm.
Combine with a trip to Zhangjiajie, where you can easily travel to Fenghuang from on the high-speed train.
Fenghuang Ancient Town
3. Fish Lantern Festival, Anji
Eventurus Team at the Fish Lantern Festival!
On select dates throughout the year, an ancient village in Anji tucked nearby Huangshan Yellow Mountain comes alive at night time. The Fish Lantern Festival is a real way to connect to Chinese tradition, rarely seen by travellers.
Locals wear Hanfu (traditional clothing), bamboo lanterns float on the water, and a parade of handmade fish lanterns swim through the alleyways.
Combine with a trip to nearby Huangshan Yellow Mountain. With Eventurus, we can arrange for a local guide to lead you through the the festivities, allowing you to be a part of the parade itself!
Fish Lantern Festival, Anji
4. Tulou Clusters in Fujian
The Tulou clusters of Fujian Province are a fascinating architectural marvel. These unique, circular earthen buildings have housed generations of Hakka families. Each tulou is a self-contained community, offering a glimpse into traditional Hakka culture and way of life. Explore the narrow passageways, visit local homes, and marvel at the ingenuity of these ancient structures.
You can even stay a night in these buildings for a really unique experience.
Tulou Clusters
5. Jiuzhaigou Valley, Sichuan
Jiuzhaigou Valley is a paradise for nature lovers, boasting colorful lakes, cascading waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. Located in Sichuan Province, this scenic wonderland is perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting, and photography. The vibrant hues of the lakes, particularly during autumn, create a surreal landscape that looks straight out of a fairy tale.
Jiuzhaigou National Park
6. Wuyuan County, Jiangxi
Known as the "most beautiful countryside in China," Wuyuan County in Jiangxi Province is famous for its picturesque villages, blooming rapeseed fields, and ancient architecture. Springtime transforms the landscape into a sea of golden yellow, making it a photographer’s dream. Wander through quaint villages, visit centuries-old temples, and enjoy the peaceful rural scenery.
Wuyuan
7. Dunhuang & The Mogao Caves, Gansu
Located on the edge of the Gobi Desert along the ancient Silk Road, Dunhuang is a mystical oasis steeped in history and dramatic natural wonders. It is home to the world-renowned Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing over 1,500 years of breathtaking Buddhist murals, sculptures, and sacred cave temples carved directly into the cliffside. Beyond its rich ancient history, Dunhuang offers an incredible desert adventure. You can climb the massive, wind-swept Mingsha (Singing) Sand Dunes, listen to the echoing sands, and look down upon Crescent Lake—a miraculous, crescent-shaped freshwater spring that has survived amidst the shifting desert dunes for thousands of years.
Dunhuang | Mingsha Sand Dunes Cresent Lake
8. Yuanyang Rice Terraces, Yunnan
The Rice Terraces in Yuanyang County, Yunnan Province, are a testament to the ingenuity and hard work of the Hani people. These intricate terraces sculpted into the mountainside are a sight to behold, especially during sunrise and sunset. The terraces create a stunning mosaic of reflections, colors, and textures, making it a photographer's paradise.
The terraces are most scenic when filled with water, usually from November until the beginning of March.
Hani Yuanyang Rice Terraces
9. Guizhou’s Miao Villages, Guizhou
Guizhou Province is home to several traditional Miao villages, known for their distinct wooden houses, vibrant festivals, and rich cultural heritage. Visiting these villages offers a unique opportunity to experience authentic Miao hospitality and witness traditional crafts and ceremonies. Don’t miss the chance to partake in a Miao festival, where colorful costumes and lively dances bring the community together.
A good base is Kaili city, from here you can village hop to well known Xijiang and Langde to lesser known and real living Miao villages like Jidao and Nanhua.
Guizhou Miao Villages
10. Shaxi Ancient Town, Yunnan
Shaxi Ancient Town, located in Yunnan Province, is a peaceful and historical town on the ancient Tea Horse Road. With well-preserved ancient streets, temples, and a charming marketplace, Shaxi offers a tranquil escape from modern life. Explore the cobblestone streets, visit the historic Xingjiao Temple, and immerse yourself in the town's rich history and culture.
Shaxi Ancient Town is a stop on our Yunnan Group Tour.
Shaxi Ancient Town
Interested in visiting any of these destinations? We can create a custom tour for you.
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