7-8 Summer Escapes & Scenic Spots: 8 Recommended Destinations Including Liupanshui and Yili

1. Liupanshui: During July and August, Liupanshui boasts an average temperature of 19.7°C, earning it the title "China's Cool Capital" as a perfect summer retreat. The mountains are lush green, with purple flower seas swaying on Jiucaiping Plateau, while the Wumeng Grassland is shrouded in mist with grazing cattle and sheep. Find tranquility in Tuole Ancient Ginkgo Village listening to babbling brooks, or head to Yeyuhai Scenic Area for mountain sports. Cool breezes accompany breathtaking views of karst landscapes—peculiar peaks, flying waterfalls, and limestone caves—offering a refreshing escape from summer heat. 2. Yili: In July and August, Yili transforms into a vibrant painting. Zhaosu Grassland dazzles with vast golden rapeseed flower fields against snow-capped mountains, creating a fairy-tale scene. The lush pastures of Kalajun Grassland are dotted with grazing livestock and colorful meadows. Sayram Lake glistens like sapphire, surrounded by wildflowers and graceful swans. This season offers not only stunning grasslands and floral displays but also lively Kazakh cultural festivals. 3. Dali: Mild and pleasant in summer, Dali's "romantic scenery of wind, flowers, snow, and moon" becomes even more enchanting. Cycle around Erhai Lake to watch waterbirds skim azure waves and explore serene Bai ethnic villages. Cangshan Mountain's misty forests invite peaceful hikes. In Xizhou Ancient Town, rice fields sprout ears, and Bai-style architecture charms visitors strolling through streets while savoring local delicacies like posu baba. Shuanglang's orange-hued sunsets offer perfect slow-living moments. 4. Hulunbuir: July-August marks Hulunbuir Grassland's most beautiful season—endless emerald expanses dotted with Mongolian yurts and grazing herds. The winding Morigele River resembles a blue silk ribbon. Gallop on horseback across vast plains, join bonfire parties with locals, or stay in yurts enjoying fragrant milk tea and succulent roasted lamb. With crisp air and breathtaking views, it's an ideal nature retreat. 5. Zhangye: The Danxia landforms glow vividly under summer sun. Rainbow Mountains dazzle with striped red, yellow, orange, and green hills resembling abstract art. Binggou Danxia's perilous "window-lattice" formations amaze. At Shandan Horse Ranch's verdant fields, ride like ancient imperial cavalry. This destination showcases nature's artistry and frontier landscapes. 6. Changbai Mountain: Shedding winter chill, Changbai Mountain thrives in summer. Heavenly Lake mirrors the sky like a giant sapphire, while thunderous waterfalls cascade through oxygen-rich forests. Primeval underground forests and blooming alpine gardens create magical hiking experiences, combining cool retreats with natural wonders. 7. Shennongjia: With 20°C average temperatures, this forested paradise offers summer escapes and mysteries. Shennong Peak's misty cliffs and bizarre rock formations intrigue, while Dajiuhu Wetland's lakes mirror stunning dawns and dusks. Trek through primeval forests tracking wildlife (including legendary "wild man" sightings) amidst refreshing wilderness. 8. Nyingchi: Though missing spring peach blossoms, summer brings new charms. Crystal-clear Niyang River winds through lush valleys and pastoral scenes. Basum Lake's jade waters reflect surrounding forests and distant snow peaks. Lulang Forest's wooden fences and villages dot dense woods. Mild weather makes hiking and photography ideal to explore "Tibet's Jiangnan" region and unique Tibetan culture.