Bishan, China

With a population of 756,022, Bishan is no quaint backwater. This district of Chongqing is well-connected, with a metro line and high-speed rail that whisk commuters to the city center in just 15 minutes. However, residents must contend with Bishan's subtropical climate, which has seen temperatures spike to a scorching 43.8°C. The bureaucracy is also a persistent headache, as Bishan has undergone numerous administrative changes over the centuries. Overall, this rapidly developing district is best suited for those seeking an efficient, urban lifestyle in western China.