Most of China is very hot in summer—Beijing 35°C, Shanghai 37°C, Chongqing 40°C, like a furnace. But China also has many cool places, average 20-something degrees in summer, natural air conditioning. Here are 5 best summer retreats.
First, Guizhou. Guizhou is called "China's Cool Capital," average summer temperature about 23°C, you still need a blanket at night. We recommend Huangguoshu Waterfall, Libo Xiaoqikong, Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village—beautiful scenery and cool. Guizhou is also affordable, perfect for summer retreat.
Second, Yunnan. Kunming is called the "City of Eternal Spring"—spring all year round, average 20°C in summer. We recommend Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La—scenery as beautiful as a painting. Yunnan is high altitude, UV is strong—remember sunscreen.
Third, Qinghai. Qinghai Lake average 18°C in summer, rapeseed flowers bloom in July, golden fields along the lake. We recommend Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, Qilian Mountains—majestic scenery. Note high altitude, don't do strenuous exercise.
Fourth, Northeast China. Harbin, Changchun, Changbai Mountain, average 25°C in summer, very cool at night. See Heaven Lake on Changbai Mountain, wander Central Street in Harbin, eat Northeast Chinese food. Fifth, Inner Mongolia grasslands—Hulunbuir Grassland average 20°C in summer, ride horses, stay in yurts, very comfortable. Which of these 5 places do you like most?
