July-August Reverse Travel: 4 Hidden Gem Cities Accessible by High-Speed Rail

Hey travel buddies! Summer vacation means crowds everywhere in popular destinations 👥👥👥. Want to explore but dread sardine-packed crowds? Here's my ultimate guide 📜—4 underrated cities reachable by high-speed rail! Scenic, uncrowded, and pleasantly cool—bookmark this now and get going!

🌊 Hidden Gem #1: Huludao—Weihai's Chill Alternative

Who says beaches must be crowded? Huludao in Liaoning offers serene sandy shores 🌅!

• Must-dos: Xingcheng Beach's ultra-fine sand + tangerine-hued sunset = insta-perfection 📸! Even the red-brick old streets are photogenic—every shot looks curated!

• Foodie heaven: Night market oysters—10 yuan for 6! 🦪 Garlic scallops, spicy clams, and chilled chicken frames will blow your mind. Cap it off with savory tofu pudding—a northern breakfast specialty!

🍃 Hidden Gem #2: Anshun—Nature's AC at 20°C

Guizhou's Anshun is summer's best-kept secret—no AC needed 🌿!

• Highlights: Dragon Palace Cave near Huangguoshu Falls is literally shiver-cool ❄️! Boat through subterranean rivers past fairytale stalactites. Yunfeng Tunbao's Ming-Qing stone village is a period-drama dream!

• Local bites: "Guo Juan" rolls, "Si Wa Wa" salads, mini hotpot noodles...🍜 Try rose-flavored ice jelly with crunchy peanuts—the ultimate summer refresher!

🏖️ Hidden Gem #3: Fangchenggang—Seaside Serenity

Skip Sanya—Fangchenggang is the low-key coastal king!

• Magical moments: Singing Sands Beach literally "sings" underfoot 🎵! Join fishermen to catch mantis shrimp/crabs 🐟—cooked fresh on the spot!

• Secret hack: Hunt shells at sunset in Le Ancient Fishing Village—the gold-drenched sea looks straight out of a movie 🌇!

🏜️ Hidden Gem #4: Zhongwei—Desert Fairytale

Where desert meets Yellow River? Ningxia's Zhongwei delivers!

• Must-experience: Sheepskin rafting down the Yellow River 🛶 with red-rock canyons! Sleep under galaxies at Desert Stars Hotel 🌌. Next day: camel trek like a true desert nomad!

• Flavors: Hand-torn lamb with sand onions, sweet malt milk tea 🥤, and crispy-fried Yellow River carp—one bite and you'll love the northwest!

🚄 Pro Tips

1️⃣ Book high-speed rail tickets 15 days early—limited direct routes!
2️⃣ Rent cars for Huludao/Fangchenggang 🚗; use taxis/day tours in Anshun/Zhongwei.
3️⃣ July-Aug UV is fierce—pack sunscreen, shades, and hats! 🧴🕶️

Ditch the crowds this summer! These 4 hidden gems promise epic photos and memories—grab your squad and go!

Post by SAMARA GUERRERO | Jun 28, 2025

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