4 Hidden Gem Cities Perfect for a 2-3 Day Getaway! Low Cost & Slow Living

Want to escape the fast pace and unwind in lesser-known cities? These four high-speed rail accessible treasures offer fewer crowds, stunning scenery, and a leisurely rhythm—perfect for immersing in local culture while rejuvenating your mind and body!

Fujian · Xiapu

🌊 Highlights: China's most beautiful tidal flats, a magical seascape of shifting light, ideal for slow travel photography to soothe the soul.
✅ Deep Dive:
• Sunrise/Sunset Spots: Watch golden dawn light dance on shimmering waters at Beqi Tidal Flats, or chase vibrant sunsets at Xiaohao Village—tripod + long exposure = epic shots.
• Fishing Village Life: Dong'an Island, dubbed "Venice of the Sea," offers boat rides through fish farms to observe fishermen at work.
• Cultural Strolls: Morning mist transforms Yangjiaxi's ancient banyan grove into an ink-wash painting, complete with farmers leading oxen across wooden bridges.
🍜 Food Journey: Fresh, affordable seafood like peppery mantis shrimp and steamed yellow croaker (¥50/person); crispy oyster cakes (¥5) make perfect breakfasts.
🚄 Transport/Lodging: 1-hour high-speed rail from Fuzhou to Xiapu Station. Stay in Sansha Town B&Bs (¥150-200/night) with sea views.

Sichuan · Langzhong

🏮 Highlights: A 2,000-year-old "feng shui gem" by the Jialing River—quieter than Lijiang, more vibrant than Pingyao.
✅ Slow Travel Guide:
• Ancient Town Immersion: Cobblestone walks to Zhongtian Tower, Zhangfei Temple; Hanfu photo shoots; night views from Huaguang Tower.
• Riverside Leisure: Boat rides or teahouse lounging with storytelling performances.
• Cultural Detours: Visit Tiangongyuan (30-min drive) to explore feng shui wisdom.
🍜 Must-Try: Vinegar-soaked beef, spicy noodles (breakfast under ¥10).
🚄 Transport/Lodging: 2-hour rail from Chengdu. Courtyard guesthouses (¥120-180/night) offer "ancient alley views."

Jiangsu · Gaoyou

🍃 Highlights: A poetic canal town praised by writer Wang Zengqi, brimming with everyday charm.
✅ Local Rhythms:
• Grand Canal biking past cargo ships; serene Zhenguo Temple pagoda.
• Morning Market: Join queues for pork-stuffed lotus leaves (Pubao Rou) and traditional sweets at South Gate Street.
• Lake Cruise: Reeds swaying on Gaoyou Lake; chance to taste freshly caught fish.
🍜 Flavors: Yangchun noodles with salted duck eggs; portable bean curd snacks.
🚄 Transport/Lodging: 20-minute rail from Yangzhou. Lakeside B&Bs (¥150-220/night) offer cooking classes.

Guizhou · Anshun

🌄 Highlights: "Food capital" near Huangguoshu Falls—low prices, slower pace.
✅ Offbeat Itinerary:
• Waterfall Secrets: Dawn at Houpou Waterfall; afternoon at less-crowded Tianxingqiao Stone Forest.
• Old Town: Qing-dynasty architecture on Rulin Road; try sour-spicy Duoduo Fen hotpot.
• Time Capsule: Ming-era Tunpu villages with unique operatic traditions.
🍜 Street Feast: Flaky pastries, cold noodles (¥5-10/dishes); ¥100 buys a food crawl!
🚄 Transport/Lodging: 30-minute rail from Guiyang. Downtown hotels (¥100-160/night) with shuttle access to waterfalls.

💡 Slow Stay Tips:
1️⃣ Itinerary: 1-2 spots/day + ample downtime.
2️⃣ Accommodation: Prioritize B&Bs with courtyards/terraces.
3️⃣ Live Local: Morning markets, sunset strolls—this is slow travel's essence!