Just 2 hours by high-speed rail! 5 off-the-beaten-path cities for your perfect getaway

1️⃣ Xuancheng, Anhui
• Transport: Direct high-speed rail, 1.5-2 hours from Shanghai/Nanjing.
• Attractions: Jingting Mountain - the "Poetic Mountain of Jiangnan" praised by Li Bai, climb to Cuiyun Peak for panoramic city views; Zhaji Ancient Village - China's largest well-preserved Huizhou-style Ming-Qing era village, offering time-travel vibes.
• Food: Hu Shi Yipin Pot (multi-layered stew), try at Juheyuan in Jixi County.
• Stay: Xuancheng Hotel - great value, central location.

2️⃣ Duyun, Guizhou
• Transport: Direct high-speed rail, just 1 hour from Guiyang.
• Attractions: Duyun Qin-Han Film City - ancient China photo ops; Doupeng Mountain for nature's tranquility.
• Food: Famous Duyun Maojian tea - rich aroma.
• Stay: Numerous affordable downtown hotels.

3️⃣ Chenzhou, Hunan
• Transport: Direct high-speed rail, just 2 hours from Guangzhou.
• Attractions: Gaoyiling Scenic Area - unique red cliffs & green waters; Suxian Ridge for city panoramas.
• Food: Signature Chenzhou Fish Rice Noodles - spicy and delicious.
• Stay: Convenient downtown hotels of all types.

4️⃣ Yixing, Jiangsu
• Transport: Direct high-speed rail, just 1 hour from Shanghai.
• Attractions: Longbei Mountain Forest Park - perfect for leisurely walks; Shanjuan Cave - spectacular karst formations.
• Food: Yangxian Xueya tea - aromatic local specialty.
• Stay: Wide selection of downtown hotels.

5️⃣ Lanxi, Zhejiang
• Transport: Direct high-speed rail, just 1 hour from Hangzhou.
• Attractions: Zhuge Bagua Village - mysterious well-preserved ancient architecture; Lanxi Underground Long River - unique cave landscape.
• Food: Signature Lanxi Beef Noodles - tender meat in flavorful broth.
• Stay: Various high-value accommodation options.

Pack your bags and embark on an impromptu adventure to these five hidden gems all within 2 hours by high-speed rail!