Golden Weeks (or Golden Holidays) correspond to the two weeks of annual vacation granted by the Chinese government in China. There are two distinct periods:

• One week in January or February, depending on the date of the Chinese New Year, which refers to the Spring Festival.

• One week starting October 1st, corresponding to National Day.

As you might imagine, during these periods the influx of Chinese travelers is massive, while expatriates in China try their best to avoid them, often by staying in major cities. Nevertheless, for those who find themselves traveling in China during this period, there are quite interesting solutions to spend an enjoyable stay away from Chinese crowds.

During these national holidays, most Chinese people leave the major cities where they work to visit their families in rural areas, or simply descend upon China's most tourist-heavy destinations. This is precisely the time for you to venture off the beaten path and discover parts of China still unknown to foreigners. The Southwest, West, and Northeast are filled with magnificent landscapes, each with its own authentic traditions and customs.

Here are a few places you might consider, in lieu of immersing yourself in Chinese urban life or the most popular tourist sites.

Immersion in the Nature of Qinghai

Located in the northwestern part of China on the border with Tibet, the Qinghai province offers a wide range of visits and natural discoveries not to be overlooked. Qinghai enjoys a pristine environment with its hills and verdant landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see. You can find solace in one of the six most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, the Kumbum Monastery, savor the impressive views of Qinghai Lake, China's largest saltwater lake, observe Bird Island, or contemplate the snow-capped peaks of the mountains and the orange hues of the grasslands.

Qinghai is a wonderful province where it is possible to (re)discover Chinese culture blended with Tibetan culture in perfect harmony. You will have the opportunity to make wonderful encounters for unforgettable memories.

A Visit to Western Sichuan

Sichuan is a highly popular province brimming with tourist sites and history. During Golden Week, take advantage of visiting there, but be strategic! To avoid crowds, you'll need to bypass the four most popular sites: the Jiuzhaigou Valley, the Huanglong and Wolong mountains, the famous Giant Buddha, and Mount Emei.

Know that Sichuan offers far more than these sites. Indeed, this southwestern province features an array of national parks, nature reserves, and incredible geographical diversity.

Western Sichuan will be an excellent alternative for discovering this region without being hindered by hordes of Chinese tourists. In autumn, the climate is pleasant for undertaking long treks between mountains and cultivated fields. Western Sichuan also offers fabulous glimpses of life within ethnic villages, which will immerse you in rural Chinese life.

The Daocheng Plateau is a perfect spot to discover natural landscapes bordered by snow-capped mountains and wander along hiking trails. You can also discover the Yading Nature Reserve, which will leave you speechless before such biodiversity. The colors of autumn bring a very special charm to this region that you won't regret visiting.

Meeting the Minorities of Kaili

If you wish to combine exploration of Chinese nature with encounters with ethnic minorities, the city of Kaili in Guizhou is well worth considering.

Kaili is the home of the Miao ethnic minority. Kaili is a perfect place to learn more about and discover the culture and life of this people, also called the Hmong people. Originating from mountainous regions, this ethnicity has long been considered nomadic and not fully integrated into mainstream civilization. The city also boasts magnificent natural landscapes and a distinctive ancient architecture. Kaili thrives to the rhythm of its ancestral festivals throughout the year. Thus, you will likely have the opportunity to participate in one of its festivals featuring traditional songs and dances.

The villages surrounding Kaili will be perfect to explore over the course of a day. You'll discover a culture, cuisine, and unique architecture.

Discovering Shanxi

Shanxi province, not to be confused with its homophone Shaanxi, is a province in northeastern China still very little sought after by foreign tourists. Yet Shanxi is a perfect summary of Chinese culture with its temples, caves, and superb gardens.

The province sits amid numerous mountain ranges, with nearly 70% rising above 1,000 meters in elevation. For hiking enthusiasts, Shanxi offers paths through majestic and picturesque mountains such as Mount Taihang, Mount Lüliang, or the Mount Wutai.

Shanxi is also a province of strong cultural potential, as evidenced by its many historical monuments. From Buddhist monasteries and temples to carved and developed caves, discovering these sites will happen under the surprised gaze of locals unaccustomed to encountering foreigners. Your passage through Shanxi will undoubtedly make an impression, and you'll come away enchanted.

To avoid in this region: the Hanging Monastery at Mount Heng, which will be highly coveted by Chinese tourists during this period.

Ningxia, China's Smallest Autonomous Region

Ningxia is China's smallest autonomous region. It is home to the Hui ethnicity, present as a minority and practicing Islam. Ningxia extends across the northwestern part of China and borders the eastern edge of Shanxi. You will find in this region relics dating back over 30,000 years, ancient artifacts from past civilizations, and important historical monuments. For history enthusiasts, Ningxia could prove to be a must-visit destination.

Yinchuan, the capital of this autonomous region, has been listed among China's one hundred cultural and historical cities. This city, surrounded by tourist sites, today best conveys the customs and traditions of the Hui ethnicity. Pagodas and mosques blend together to offer visitors an authentic atmosphere. Ningxia is not merely a region of strong cultural interest. It also allows nature lovers to rejuvenate, particularly along the banks of the celebrated Yellow River or the sandy lake.

It is also possible to visit ancient villages, catch glimpses of sections of the Great Wall of China, or escape among forests and deserts.

Highly diversified, this region is an excellent alternative for discovering a "different China", as well as Hui culture.

Xinjiang Province for Staying Far from Bustling Cities

The Xinjiang autonomous region is located in northwestern China. This region is ideal for getting away from the hustle and bustle of urban areas and enjoying calm, colorful natural landscapes. Despite its assets, Xinjiang remains one of the country's least visited provinces. Xinjiang has the distinction of sharing its borders with eight countries: Mongolia, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan.

This beautiful region is traversed by the Tian Mountains (Tianshan) range. Among the main tourist sites, you will find the magnificent Tian Mountains glacier, the Miao'er, Shuixi, and Banfang valleys, the Kanas nature reserve, the Kizil caves, and the swan reserve.

If you miss civilization and wish to return to urban life, you can stroll through the streets of the capital Urumqi, or discover the historical treasures of Turpan.

This region has much to offer and will provide assured tranquility during the "Golden Week".

It's important to bear in mind that China is an immense country, 17 times the size of France. The territory contains such diversity—both cultural and natural—that you will always be able to find somewhere to escape, far from the crowds generated by Golden Week. Nevertheless, you will need to book your plane, train, or bus tickets in advance to avoid finding yourself stranded in the city with nothing but disappointment.