Must-See Comprehensive Travel Guide to Avoid Pitfalls After Gaokao

Hey everyone! After years of hard study, it's finally time to celebrate the end of Gaokao 🎉! What better way to commemorate your youth than with an epic trip? But watch out for travel scams—this ultimate anti-pitfall guide will help you have a fun and worry-free adventure! ✨

🌶️ **Chongqing – The 8D Magic Mountain City**
🔥 **Must-Visit Spots:**
- **Hongya Cave**: Breathtaking when lit up at night—snap the perfect shot from Qiansimen Bridge 📸
- **Liziba Light Rail Station**: Witness the train "piercing" through a building—arrive early for the best view!
🍜 **Food Recs:**
Zhou Shixiong Hotpot, Pei’s Old Hotpot, Tikan Tofu Pudding, and don’t miss the sweet Chongqing Glutinous Rice Balls!
❌ **Avoid Scams:**
Don’t take unlicensed taxis outside Hongya Cave—they overcharge. Skip touristy "hotpot chains" near attractions; authentic flavors hide in local alleyways!

🍲 **Chengdu – The Laid-Back Capital of Comfort**
🐼 **Must-Visit Spots:**
- **Chengdu Panda Base**: See chubby pandas—arrive before 8 AM to catch them active!
- **Kuanzhai Alley**: Experience old Chengdu charm and snap vintage-style photos
- **Chunxi Road**: Trendy hotspot with celebrity sightings
🍢 **Food Recs:**
Zhang Lao’er Liangfen, Zhong Dumpling, Maojiao Huola Skewers, and sip tea from a traditional bowl!
❌ **Avoid Scams:**
Ear-cleaning services in tourist areas vary in price—stick to legit shops. Avoid unverified guides near Wuhou Shrine; book through official channels.

🏮 **Xi’an – The Millennial Romance of an Ancient Capital**
🏺 **Must-Visit Spots:**
- **Terracotta Warriors**: Hire a professional guide—otherwise, it’s just "looking at clay figures"
- **Tang Paradise**: Stunning Tang Dynasty performances—line up early for the "Tumbler Girl" interaction!
- **Xi’an City Wall**: Bike at sunset for golden views over the ancient walls
🍜 **Food Recs:**
Zi Wu Lu Zhang’s Roujiamo, Ma Hong’s Paomo, Sajinqiao Night Market, and sweet Jing Cake!
❌ **Avoid Scams:**
Fake souvenirs abound near the Terracotta Warriors—buy from official stores. Ignore pushy photographers near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda!

🥘 **Changsha – The City of Food & Trends**
🍊 **Must-Visit Spots:**
- **Orange Isle**: Pose with Chairman Mao’s statue—take the sightseeing train
- **Super Wenhua & You**: Retro 80s vibes—like stepping into a time machine
- **Yuelu Mountain**: Love Sunset Pavilion & Yuelu Academy ooze history
🍡 **Food Recs:**
Black Classic Stinky Tofu, Chuiyan’s Stir-Fried Beef, and Tea Yan Yuese (try the Shengsheng Oolong!)
❌ **Avoid Scams:**
Restaurants near Wuyi Square get packed—reserve via "Meiwei Buyong Deng." Only buy Tea Yan Yuese from official stores—no overpriced resellers!

🌊 **Qingdao – The Romantic Coastal City**
🌇 **Must-Visit Spots:**
- **Zhanqiao Pier**: Watch seagulls at sunset—pure therapy
- **Xiaomai Island**: Feels like "Jeju Island Lite"—perfect for photos
- **Laoshan Mountain**: Don’t miss Taiqing Palace & Yangkou Scenic Area
🦐 **Food Recs:**
Chuange Fish Dumplings, Wangjie BBQ, and Qingdao beer with seafood—heavenly!
❌ **Avoid Scams:**
Check seafood weights at markets and confirm processing fees. Skip overpriced souvenirs near the Beer Museum—buy outside!

Pack this guide, grab your friends, and hit the road! 🚀