Just 2 hours by high-speed rail! 5 off-the-beaten-path cities for your perfect getaway

1️⃣ Xuancheng, Anhui • Transport: Direct high-speed rail, 1.5-2 hours from Shanghai/Nanjing. • Attractions: Jingting Mountain - the "Poetic Mountain of Jiangnan" praised by Li Bai, climb to Cuiyun Peak for panoramic city views; Zhaji Ancient Village - China's largest well-preserved Huizhou-style Ming-Qing era village, offering time-travel vibes. • Food: Hu Shi Yipin Pot (multi-layered stew), try at Juheyuan in Jixi County. • Stay: Xuancheng Hotel - great value, central location. 2️⃣ Duyun, Guizhou • Transport: Direct high-speed rail, just 1 hour from Guiyang. • Attractions: Duyun Qin-Han Film City - ancient China photo ops; Doupeng Mountain for nature's tranquility. • Food: Famous Duyun Maojian tea - rich aroma. • Stay: Numerous affordable downtown hotels. 3️⃣ Chenzhou, Hunan • Transport: Direct high-speed rail, just 2 hours from Guangzhou. • Attractions: Gaoyiling Scenic Area - unique red cliffs & green waters; Suxian Ridge for city panoramas. • Food: Signature Chenzhou Fish Rice Noodles - spicy and delicious. • Stay: Convenient downtown hotels of all types. 4️⃣ Yixing, Jiangsu • Transport: Direct high-speed rail, just 1 hour from Shanghai. • Attractions: Longbei Mountain Forest Park - perfect for leisurely walks; Shanjuan Cave - spectacular karst formations. • Food: Yangxian Xueya tea - aromatic local specialty. • Stay: Wide selection of downtown hotels. 5️⃣ Lanxi, Zhejiang • Transport: Direct high-speed rail, just 1 hour from Hangzhou. • Attractions: Zhuge Bagua Village - mysterious well-preserved ancient architecture; Lanxi Underground Long River - unique cave landscape. • Food: Signature Lanxi Beef Noodles - tender meat in flavorful broth. • Stay: Various high-value accommodation options. Pack your bags and embark on an impromptu adventure to these five hidden gems all within 2 hours by high-speed rail!