Heze, China

With a population of over 8.7 million, this inland Chinese city is no quaint backwater. While Heze boasts an abundance of cultural attractions like the famous Caozhou Peony Garden, the reality is that bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the region is prone to frequent droughts and floods. The climate is also a mixed bag, with long, frigid winters and sweltering, humid summers. For those seeking an authentic Chinese experience outside the megacities, Heze may hold appeal, but it's not for the faint of heart.