Chefushan, China

With a population of over 1.4 million, Chefushan is no sleepy backwater. The sheer size of this county-level city means navigating its bureaucracy can be a persistent headache. The area is also relatively impoverished compared to the rest of Jiangsu Province, so don't expect a glitzy, high-flying expat scene. However, the city does boast the world's longest avenue of Dawn redwood trees, stretching over 60 kilometers - a nature lover's dream. Overall, Chefushan is best suited for those seeking a more grounded, provincial Chinese experience, rather than the glitz and glamor of the country's megacities.