Top 3 Cool Summer Road Trip Destinations

1. Chengde Mountain Resort & Surroundings, Hebei Why Go: Imperial summer retreat with average 23°C temperature Must-See Attractions: Mountain Resort (¥130): Largest existing imperial garden Eight Outer Temples (Potala Temple ¥80): Mini Potala Palace Hammer Peak Forest Park (¥50): Unique rock formations Local Delicacies: Lüdagunr: Chengde snack, ¥5-10/serving Lamb Soup with Baked Cake: Local breakfast, ¥15/set Imperial Sugar Cake: Royal pastry, ¥20/box Budget Stays: Chain Hotels: ¥100-150/night (Shuangqiao District) Farm Stays: ¥60-80/person (includes meals) Driving Tip: 3 hours from Beijing via Jingcheng Expressway 2. Libo Xiaoqikong, Guizhou Why Go: "Emerald on Earth's Belt" with 25°C coolness Must-See Attractions: Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge (¥170 incl. shuttle): 68-tier waterfalls Wolongtan: Emerald lake like Jiuzhaigou Water Forest: Fun wading experience Local Delicacies: Sour Fish Soup: Miao specialty, ¥50/person Libo Rice Crisps: Crunchy snack, ¥10/bag Bayberry Drink: Refreshing, ¥8/cup Budget Stays: Scenic B&Bs: ¥80-120/room Town Hotels: ¥60-100/room Driving Tip: 3 hours from Guiyang via highway 3. Menyuan Rapeseed Fields, Qinghai Why Go: Golden July blooms at 20°C Must-See Attractions: Rapeseed Fields (Free): Best in July Gangshika Snow Peak: Snow-capped mountain backdrop Zhaobi Mountain Viewpoint (¥30): Panoramic spot Local Delicacies: Yak Yogurt: ¥5/bowl Goujiaoniao Cake: Qinghai snack, ¥3/each Hand-Torn Lamb: ¥60/jin Budget Stays: Hostel Beds: ¥40-60 Farm Inns: ¥80-120/room Driving Tip: 2.5 hours from Xining with good roads Road Trip Tips: 1. Vehicle Check: Pre-trip maintenance 2. Sun Protection: Strong UV at high altitudes 3. Temperature Shifts: Bring light jacket 4. Book Early: Reserve 3 days ahead in peak season 5. Eco Travel: Bring trash bags Each destination offers unique experiences: imperial culture in Chengde, refreshing landscapes in Libo, and breathtaking blooms in Menyuan. Choose based on your location for a perfect summer getaway! Keep drives under 5 hours for safety and comfort.