6 Lesser-Known Cities You Can Visit in May and June with Just 1,000 Yuan!

Are you tired of crowded popular spots? Don’t want to deal with complicated travel plans? Or maybe you only have 1,000 yuan in your wallet but still want to take a spontaneous trip? Don’t worry, these 6 hidden gem cities offer scenery that rivals trendy destinations, delicious food without any disappointments, and costs so low you’ll hardly believe it. They are like treasures hidden in time, waiting for you to discover. 1. Wuyuan Huangling, Jiangxi | The Hidden Slow Life of a Hui-Style Ancient Village Budget: 800-1000 yuan “Hanging Autumn” is Huangling’s signature, but in May and June, the greenery is even more vibrant. The terraced fields ripple like green waves, with white walls and black tiles of Hui architecture nestled among them, like an unfinished ink painting. Why is it perfect for you? - No need for a detailed plan: The village is small, every stroll offers beautiful views, and you won’t get lost. - Food won’t disappoint: Huizhou fermented tofu, stinky mandarin fish, and lotus leaf red carp—each bite is authentic Huizhou flavor. - Affordable accommodation: Homestays in the village cost 200-300 yuan per night, with terraced fields right outside your window. Who is it for? Those who love slow living, photography, and want to experience the authentic village atmosphere. 2. Pingtan Island, Fujian | The Romance of Blue Tears and Island Cycling Budget: 900-1100 yuan May and June are peak seasons for Pingtan’s “Blue Tears.” At night, the coastline glows with a faint blue light, like stars falling into the sea. During the day, rent an electric bike to circle the island, feeling the sea breeze on your face—freedom like a movie. Why is it perfect for you? - No need for a detailed plan: There’s only one ring road around the island, just follow it on your bike. - Food won’t disappoint: Oyster omelets, fish ball soup, and sandworm soup—fresh and affordable seafood. - Affordable accommodation: Seaview homestays in Beigang Village cost about 300 yuan, with the sea right outside your window. Who is it for? Romantics chasing the Blue Tears, island lovers, and cycling enthusiasts. 3. Baise, Guangxi | Adventure in Karst Sinkholes Budget: 700-900 yuan Baise isn’t a tourist city but a paradise for adventurers. The Leye and Dashiwai sinkhole groups look like giant eyes cracked open in the earth—mysterious and awe-inspiring. Why is it perfect for you? - No need for a detailed plan: The sinkhole scenic areas are well-developed, just follow the signs. - Food won’t disappoint: Five-color glutinous rice and Zhuang-style sour bamboo duck—tangy and appetizing. - Affordable accommodation: Budget hotels in the city cost about 150 yuan per night, great value. Who is it for? Outdoor lovers, those seeking niche adventures, and fans of karst landscapes. 4. Fenghuang Ancient Town, Hunan | Poetic Moments by the Tuojiang River Budget: 800-1000 yuan In May and June, Fenghuang has fewer tourists, the Tuojiang River is clearer, and the reflections of stilted buildings are more beautiful. Early morning boat rides through mist feel like stepping into Shen Congwen’s "Border Town." Why is it perfect for you? - No need for a detailed plan: The ancient town is small, and wandering around always brings surprises. - Food won’t disappoint: Blood rice duck and Miao-style sour fish—each bite full of Western Hunan flavor. - Affordable accommodation: Riverside inns cost about 200 yuan per night, with picturesque night lights. Who is it for? Lovers of ancient towns, photography enthusiasts, and those wanting to experience slow living. 5. Ya’an, Sichuan | The Hidden Secret of the Misty Tea Country Budget: 700-900 yuan Ya’an isn’t a popular travel destination, but the waterfalls of Bifeng Gorge, tea gardens of Mengding Mountain, and the lively atmosphere of Shangli Ancient Town are unforgettable. Why is it perfect for you? - No need for a detailed plan: Attractions are concentrated and public transport is convenient. - Food won’t disappoint: Tatta noodles and Ya’an barbecue—spicy and satisfying. - Affordable accommodation: Forest homestays cost about 200 yuan per night, with greenery right outside your window. Who is it for? Nature lovers, tea enthusiasts, and those looking for a quiet place to relax. 6. Zibo, Shandong | The Double Healing of Barbecue and Local Life Budget: 600-800 yuan Zibo’s barbecue has become famous, but this small city offers much more. The bustling local life of Badaju, the artistic vibe of Haidai Tower, and the historic feel of Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City are all worth savoring slowly. Why is it perfect for you? - No need for a detailed plan: Barbecue stalls are everywhere, and any one of them tastes great. - Food won’t disappoint: Purple rice cakes, tofu boxes, and Zibo barbecue—eat your fill for about 50 yuan per person. - Affordable accommodation: City center hotels cost about 150 yuan per night, with convenient transportation. Who is it for? Foodies, lovers of local life, and those wanting to experience slow living in a small city. Travel doesn’t have to be expensive! These 6 cities offer scenery that rivals popular spots and costs that will pleasantly surprise you. They are like the gentle and healing breeze of early summer. So don’t hesitate. 1,000 yuan is enough to set off. In May and June, pick a city and meet a different version of yourself!