4 Lesser-Known Hidden Gems Accessible by High-Speed Rail: Fewer Crowds, Beautiful Scenery, Easy Departure!

Tired of crowded popular spots? These 4 hidden gems reachable by high-speed rail offer stunning scenery and low costs, perfect for short trips. Save this guide now!

1. Songyang, Zhejiang — The Last Hidden Gem of Jiangnan
Transportation: High-speed rail to Lishui Station, then a 1-hour bus to Songyang.
Must-visit spots:
- Yangjiatang Village: At dusk, sunlight on the yellow earth walls resembles a "Golden Potala Palace"
- Songyin Creek Morning Mist: Early morning mist envelops the creek, creating a fairy-tale-like dreamscape
- Chenjiapu Village Cliff Bookstore: A pioneering bookstore built on a cliff overlooking sea of clouds and terraced fields
Food recommendations:
- Songyang Thin Pancake (5 RMB): Crispy and delicious, locals’ favorite breakfast
- Stewed Salted Chicken (10 RMB): Tender meat with savory flavor
Budget accommodation:
- Songyang Old Street Homestay (80-150 RMB/night): Antique style, within walking distance to Ming and Qing dynasty ancient street

2. Yixian, Anhui — A More Pristine Hui-Style Ancient Village than Hongcun
Transportation: High-speed rail to Huangshan North Station, then 40 minutes by taxi to Yixian.
Must-visit spots:
- Nanping Village (free admission): Ming and Qing ancestral halls, filming location of "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon"
- Tachuan Autumn Scenery (best in November): Mountains covered in red leaves, known as "One of China’s Most Beautiful Autumn Views"
Food recommendations:
- Stinky Mandarin Fish (48 RMB/fish): Famous Huizhou dish, smells strong but tastes delicious
- Huangshan Sesame Cake (2 RMB each): Filled with preserved vegetables, crispy and tasty
Budget accommodation:
- Hui-Style Old House Homestay (60 RMB/night): 200-year-old historic house, experience authentic Huizhou life

3. Qianjiang, Chongqing — A 5A Hidden Gem in the Wuling Mountains
Transportation: Chongqing to Qianjiang Station (1-hour direct high-speed rail).
Must-visit spots:
- Zhuoshui Ancient Town: Chongqing’s only 5A ancient town, stunning night view of covered bridge
- Puhua Dark River: Boat trip through the "Three Days Two Nights" karst cave wonder, constant 22°C temperature
Food recommendations:
- Qianjiang Chicken Offal: Sour, spicy, and fragrant, perfect with rice
- Vegetable Beef: Local specialty, tender beef
Budget accommodation:
- Zhuoshui Ancient Town Inn (80-120 RMB/night): Window views of the covered bridge, excellent value

4. Xiapu, Fujian — A Free Light and Shadow Laboratory for Photographers
Transportation: High-speed rail directly to Xiapu Station, car rental 50 RMB/day for coastal touring.
Must-visit spots:
- Xiaohao Mudflat Sunrise: Free admission, light and shadow change like an oil painting
- Dongbi Village Sunset: Fishing boats sing at dusk, a photographer’s paradise
Food recommendations:
- Seafood Stalls (40 RMB per person): Enjoy "gout-friendly meal freedom"
- Minnan Paste: Xiapu specialty snack, soft and glutinous texture
Budget accommodation:
- Xiapu County Youth Hostel (60-100 RMB/night): Close to mudflats, convenient for early sunrise photography

🎈Summary:
These 4 destinations are accessible by high-speed rail + low cost + fewer crowds + beautiful scenery, ideal for weekend or short trips. If you want to avoid crowds and experience pristine nature, take this guide and set off!