Hepo, China

131,238 residents in a remote town? That's a lot of people in the middle of nowhere. Hepo, China may seem idyllic, but the reality is a persistent headache from bureaucracy and a lack of infrastructure. The area was only home to around 150 people before becoming a trading post, and the rapid influx of Chinese migrants has strained local resources. While the cultural heritage is fascinating, day-to-day life in Hepo is a far cry from the romanticized vision of rural China. This town is best suited for those with a deep appreciation for Chinese history and a high tolerance for administrative hassles.