From vast forests to ancient gardens, China has a number of amazing places with perfect summer weather. Here are just six to start off your travels.

1. Bamboo Sea in Southern Sichuan

On the border of Changning and Jiang’an counties in Yinbin, Sichuan, the Bamboo Sea covers 120km², including 28 peaks. The high air quality and picturesque waves of green make this bamboo forest an ideal destination for summer.

2.  Libo, Guizhou 贵州荔波

Libo in southern Guizhou, consists of three main scenic spots, including Xiaoqikong (小七孔), Daqikong (大七孔), and Maolan Karst Reserve (茂兰喀斯特保护区). It features beautiful karst forests with rumbling waterfalls, colorful rivers, and fantastic caves.

3. Shuanglang, Yunnan 云南双廊

Shuanglang is a quiet fishing town located on the northwestern bank of Erhai Lake (洱海) in Yunan. After exploring the town, take a boat to one of the lake’s three islands to learn about the ancient Nazhao (南诏) and Dali (大理国) kingdoms that once ruled the place.

4. Lugu Lake 泸沽湖

Lugu Lake in Ninglang Yi Autonomous County, Yunan averages 20 ℃ in the summer and is definitely one of the best places to escape the heat. You can also learn about the “walking marriage” (走婚), a unique custom of the local Mosuo people. The Musuo live in a matrilineal society where people trace their lineage primarily through their mother’s family, and women can choose and change their husbands throughout their lives.

5. Nyingchi, Tibet Autonomous Region 西藏林芝

Nyingchi, located downstream from Yarlung Tsangpo River in southeast Tibet Autonomous Region, differs from other high-altitude areas in Tibet because of its relatively low altitude. In summer, the snow-capped Namcha Barwa (南迦巴瓦峰) and the clear blue skies make it a place you don’t want to miss.

6. Chengde Mountain Resort 承德避暑山庄

Chengde Mountain Resort, north of Chengde, Hebei, is one of the most famous summer resorts in China. An imperial garden and summer palace during the Qing Dynasty, the resort is a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden planning.