A town you'll never want to leave, where living to 100 isn't unusual

Five years ago when I just retired, I started searching worldwide for the perfect retirement spot. After visiting many places, I finally settled in the Xinzhai Tropical River Valley and never wanted to leave! Now whenever I chat with my old friends, I can't help but recommend this place - it's literally my "dream retirement paradise"!

✔️Unlike Dali which is always crowded or Sanya with its sky-high prices, this hidden gem near the Nujiang River bend is like an undiscovered treasure - incredibly low-key. But once you live here, you'll love picking fresh fruits anytime and soaking in natural hot springs. Who wouldn't adore this lifestyle?

✔️The climate here is absolutely perfect! At 680m altitude, it's extremely comfortable with dry, fresh air that's never stuffy. Year-round temperatures stay between 21-26°C - just add a light jacket for morning walks, and short sleeves are fine at noon. With 85% forest coverage and PM2.5 consistently in single digits, I can now climb stairs without getting winded - my lungs feel ten years younger!

✔️The scenery is beyond words! Backed by the Gaoligong Mountains (home to 30% of China's rare plants) and facing the majestic Nujiang Grand Canyon, the natural resources are incredibly rich. Morning hikes take you through drifting clouds, while afternoon riverside walks reveal emerald-green waters. The best part? Hardly any crowds - I feel like I have this paradise all to myself every day!

✔️What gives me most peace of mind is the medical care. There's a tertiary hospital outpatient clinic right downstairs (pharmacy just 100m away), and for emergencies, a top-tier hospital is just 30 minutes away. The town even has helicopter emergency rescue that can get you to a top hospital in 15 minutes. Our town health managers remind me to take medicine and check blood pressure more diligently than my own daughter!

✔️Living amenities are super complete too! With high-speed rail and airport nearby, it's easy for my kids to visit. The town has 25 sulfur hot springs (my knee pain disappeared after regular soaks), and community gardens where you can pick vegetables for free. Last month I learned to make mango jam with my neighbors!

Post by NomadicNavigator | Jun 20, 2025