Hezuo, China

The population of Hezuo is just 112,173, but don't let that fool you - this alpine city in northwestern China is no sleepy backwater. With over half the population being Tibetan, the cultural identity is strong, but the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache for outsiders. The brutal winters, with average January temperatures plunging below -9°C, are a harsh reality, but the city does see over 2,300 hours of sunshine per year. While the primary industries of animal husbandry and agriculture drive the local economy, tourism is on the rise, attracting 2 million visitors in 2018 and generating over 1 billion yuan. For those seeking an authentic Tibetan experience, Hezuo may be worth considering, but the daunting climate and red tape make it a poor fit for the faint of heart.