Budget Travel Guide! Six Underrated Cities in Henan, Hunan, and More with High Value for Money

Hebi, Henan Hebi, Henan, is full of pleasant surprises. Qixian Guling Mountain, a sacred Taoist site, offers tranquility and legend—it's said Nuwa mended the sky here. Ancient temples and cliff carvings whisper history, while the glass suspension bridge adds excitement, making it fun for all ages. The free-to-enter Qihe Wetland Park boasts clear waters and lush greenery. Stroll along the river with family, watch egrets glide, or rent a boat to drift leisurely. Local prices are wallet-friendly: homestays cost around ¥100/night, and specialties like "thread-wrapped duck eggs" and Junxian "zi mo" (stuffed pancakes) are delicious yet affordable, ensuring a satisfying low-budget trip. Shaoyang, Hunan Shaoyang, Hunan, is a forgotten gem. The Danxia landforms of Langshan astonish with towering peaks and bizarre rocks. A boat ride along the Zijiang River feels like gliding through a landscape painting, captivating both kids and elders. Yunshan Mountain, shrouded in mist, hides ancient temples—hike its trails to breathe in fresh air and history, with plenty of rest stops along the way. Stay in downtown budget hotels (¥150/night) for comfort. Try Shaoyang rice noodles (chewy and smooth) or savory pork blood balls, with meals averaging ¥30/person, offering a taste of local charm. Hezhou, Guangxi Huangyao Ancient Town in Hezhou, Guangxi, exudes poetic antiquity. Cobblestone paths, Ming-Qing architecture, and quaint bridges create a serene atmosphere, as if stepping back in time. Affordable entry tickets (often discounted) make it ideal for families—kids can play by the stream while elders relax in pavilions. Homestays (¥100–200/night) are uniquely charming. Sample local oil tea and snacks (¥20–30/meal), then watch the sunset over Yaojiang River with loved ones, soaking in Huangyao’s warmth. Chizhou, Anhui Chizhou, Anhui, is poetic and budget-friendly. Xinghua Village, famed from the line "a cowherd points to Apricot Blossom Village," now offers free scenic walks—rent Hanfu (¥20/set) for family photos. Pingtian Lake, less crowded than West Lake, is perfect for cycling at sunset. Jiuhua’s back mountain, a free hiking spot, boasts cool forests rich in oxygen. Stay in Qingyang County guesthouses (¥80/night). Try stinky mandarin fish (discounts available) or Lingyang dried tofu (¥5/serving), savoring local flavors without breaking the bank. Mangshi, Yunnan Mangshi, Yunnan, brims with ethnic culture. Its golden and silver pagodas shine brilliantly—rent traditional outfits (affordable rates) for stunning photos. Street food delights like Dai-style hand-tossed rice (¥30–40/person) and sweet "pao lu da" (under ¥10) are must-tries. Homestays (¥100–150/night) are clean and cozy. Immerse your family in minority traditions and festivals for unforgettable memories. Linxia, Gansu Linxia, Gansu, radiates religious heritage. Sunlit mosque domes dazzle, and most offer free entry to explore their cultural depth. Savor steaming beef noodles (¥10+) or slippery "niang pi" (¥5–8) with unique spices. Budget hotels (¥100/night) ensure comfort. Wander Linxia’s streets with family, relishing its distinct charm on a shoestring.