Hailin, China

With a population of just 292,755, Hailin is a small county-level city in China's remote northeast. While it boasts natural attractions like tiger reserves and snowcapped mountains, the reality of day-to-day life here can be a grind. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with aircraft bombs still being discovered from the Japanese occupation during World War II. And with 90% of the city's area covered in mountains, navigating the rugged geography is an ever-present challenge. Those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience may find Hailin intriguing, but for most, the hassle outweighs the benefits.