Dunhua, China

With over 392,000 residents, Dunhua is a sizable Chinese county-level city, but one that comes with its fair share of practical challenges. The harsh, sub-freezing winters stretch nearly half the year, and the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache for foreigners. That said, the city's location amid the scenic Changbai Mountains offers natural beauty, and its history as the capital of the ancient Balhae kingdom provides a tantalizing cultural draw. Overall, Dunhua may appeal to adventurous expats seeking a remote outpost, but the brutal climate and red tape are not for the faint of heart.