Travel in July to Less Popular Cities: Four Hidden Gems Recommended

🌈Hey folks👋, don’t want to be squeezed in crowded popular cities in July but still want an amazing travel experience? Then follow me to explore these 4 lesser-known cities! They are like forgotten pearls, radiating unique charm, and best of all, they offer great value for money, allowing you to have a distinctive trip in the scorching summer🎉 ✨1. Jianshui, Yunnan In July, Jianshui enjoys perfect sunshine and pleasant weather. This small city full of historical charm is like a thick history book waiting for you to flip through. Itinerary • Day 1: Arrive in Jianshui and first visit Zhu Family Garden. Stepping into this "Grand View Garden of Southern Yunnan" feels like traveling back to the late Qing Dynasty. With deep courtyards and intricately carved beams, every detail showcases the former glory of the Zhu family. Here, you can slow down and appreciate the exquisite ancient architecture and feel the traces left by time🏯. For lunch, try local specialties nearby, such as steam pot chicken, with tender meat, flavorful broth, and rich nutrition—super satisfying with every bite😋. In the afternoon, take the Jianshui Ancient Town small train, a retro ride through the countryside with picturesque scenery along the way. The majestic Shuanglong Bridge and the Seventeen-Arch Bridge span the Lujiang and Tachong Rivers, stunningly beautiful against the blue sky and white clouds. After arriving at Tuanshan Residence, stroll through the ancient alleys and feel the tranquility and simplicity of the old village🛤️. In the evening, return to the ancient town to explore the lively Purple Pottery Street, pick some favorite purple pottery crafts, and try local snacks like grilled tofu—strolling and snacking is pure bliss. • Day 2: After breakfast, visit Swallow Cave. Inside, the stalactites are dazzling and colorful under the lights, like entering a magical world🕷️. July is the peak season for swallows nesting here, and you can witness the spectacular scene of thousands of swallows flying, accompanied by their chirping—a truly wonderful experience. Have lunch outside the cave with local specialties, then return to the ancient town. In the afternoon, visit the Imperial Examination Hall to learn about the ancient imperial examination system and feel Jianshui’s rich cultural heritage. In the evening, you can relax at a small bar in the ancient town, listen to music, and enjoy the leisurely night in Jianshui. Travel Tips • Zhu Family Garden may be crowded; please protect cultural relics and avoid touching ancient buildings. • Book tickets in advance for the Jianshui Ancient Town small train and pay attention to departure times. Respect local residents’ customs when visiting Shuanglong Bridge and Tuanshan Residence. • The Swallow Cave is slippery; walk carefully. When watching the swallows, keep quiet to avoid disturbing them. ✨2. Fuzhou, Jiangxi In July, Fuzhou is lush and green. This culturally rich Jiangnan small city has a unique charm, like a beautiful poem. Itinerary • Day 1: Arrive in Fuzhou and first visit Wenchangli Historical and Cultural District. This area is Fuzhou’s "historical archive" and "old city museum," with winding ancient streets and scattered historic buildings like Yulong Wanshou Palace and Zhengjue Temple. Strolling here, you can feel the flavor of history, as if hearing the whispers of time🏮. For lunch, try Fuzhou specialties such as Linchuan vegetable stems, crisp and delicious, leaving a lasting impression. In the afternoon, go to Nixiantai. Climb Nixiantai for a panoramic view of Fuzhou city. The Fu River flows below, with rolling hills in the distance. Especially at sunset, the golden glow on the city tower is breathtaking🌆. Have dinner at a nearby restaurant and enjoy the night view of the Fu River. • Day 2: After breakfast, visit Sanweng Garden. The garden is themed around three great playwrights: Tang Xianzu, Shakespeare, and Cervantes. In July, flowers bloom in full glory, competing in beauty, creating a dreamy sea of flowers perfect for photos🌸. Have lunch inside or near the garden, tasting local specialties. In the afternoon, visit the Wang Anshi Memorial Hall to learn about the life and literary achievements of this famous Northern Song politician and writer. In the evening, stroll around the city to experience Fuzhou’s nightlife. Travel Tips • Some ancient buildings in Wenchangli are old; be cautious and avoid dangerous areas. • Be careful climbing Nixiantai, especially on stairs and near the viewing platform edges. Do not pick flowers or plants in Sanweng Garden. • Keep quiet in the Wang Anshi Memorial Hall and follow the visiting rules. ✨3. Jinchang, Gansu In July, Jinchang has cool weather. This small city in the northwest has a unique style, like a pearl hidden on the edge of the desert. Itinerary • Day 1: Arrive in Jinchang and visit Zijinyuan Scenic Area. In July, lavender, vervain, and other flowers bloom in competition, creating vast purple flower seas that are extremely romantic, like being in Provence, France. Walking here, the fragrance fills the air, and photos come out beautifully📷. For lunch, try Jinchang specialties nearby, such as lamb rolled pancakes, with tender lamb and chewy pancakes, rich in flavor. In the afternoon, visit Jinchuan National Mining Park to witness the city’s development born from mining, learn about mining culture, and overlook the spectacular open-pit mine, feeling the blend of industry and nature. In the evening, explore Jinchang city’s night market to experience local life. • Day 2: After breakfast, visit Lijian Ancient City. This ancient city is full of mystery and is said to be related to the Roman legion. Tour the reconstructed ancient buildings and learn about its unique history and culture. For lunch, try the ancient city’s specialty, Lijian beef. In the afternoon, stroll in the fields around the ancient city to enjoy rural scenery. Then prepare to return, ending this unique trip. Travel Tips • Bring mosquito repellent to Zijinyuan Scenic Area. Do not trample flowers or plants; protect the environment. • Some areas in Jinchuan National Mining Park have complex terrain; be cautious and follow signs. • When buying souvenirs or specialties in Lijian Ancient City, watch prices and bargain appropriately. ✨4. Yichun, Heilongjiang In July, Yichun is like a sea of green, with a high forest coverage rate and cool, pleasant climate—an excellent summer retreat. Itinerary • Day 1: Arrive in Yichun and head straight to Wuying National Forest Park. Entering the park is like stepping into a green fairy tale world, with towering red pines shading the sky and fresh air refreshing the soul🌲. Walk along the boardwalk, look for rare plants and cute animals, and feel the vitality of nature. Have lunch inside or near the park, tasting specialties like wild vegetables and mushroom chicken stew. In the afternoon, visit the Forest Science Museum to learn about forest ecology. Stay overnight at a nearby guesthouse to experience the peaceful forest life. • Day 2: After breakfast, visit Maolangou National Forest Park. This park combines strange mountains, clear waters, dense forests, quiet pools, and beautiful waterfalls, earning the nickname "Northern Jiuzhaigou"⛰️. Walk along the canyon trail to admire unique peaks, clear streams, and spectacular waterfalls. In the water play area, enjoy the coolness of summer. Have lunch inside the park, then continue exploring and immerse yourself in the natural beauty. Return to the city for overnight. • Day 3: In the morning, go to Meihua River Resort. Kids can play in the playground and try activities like archery and fruit picking. Parents can relax in the leisure area and enjoy a leisurely time. Have lunch at the resort, then prepare to return, ending a pleasant Yichun trip. Travel Tips • Roads in Wuying and Maolangou National Forest Parks can be slippery; make sure kids wear non-slip shoes. Remind children not to pick plants or disturb wildlife. • Watch children carefully in Maolangou’s water play area to prevent drowning. The waterfall area is misty; remind kids to walk carefully. • Follow park rules when picking fruit at Meihua River Resort and avoid waste. Archery activities are supervised to ensure children’s safety. Folks, set off for these less popular cities in July to avoid crowds and enjoy a unique and relaxing trip💕 #JulyReverseTravel #HiddenCities #TravelGuide