Guiyang, China

Capital City

With a population of 5,987,018, Guiyang is a sprawling regional capital in southwest China that offers a mixed bag for prospective expats. The humid subtropical climate is a persistent headache, with a mere 1,150 hours of sunshine per year and relentless rainfall. Bureaucracy is also a constant hurdle, as this city designated for 'ecological civilization' is home to 49 different minority groups and a complex local language. However, Guiyang's rapid growth in tech and data has drawn major multinational firms, offering opportunities for skilled professionals. This rapidly modernizing provincial hub is best suited for adventurous expats who can tolerate the dreary weather and red tape.