Houzhen, China

With over 1.1 million residents, this is no quaint village. Houzhen is a sprawling agricultural hub, known as the 'home of vegetables' in China. While the booming produce industry has fueled rapid economic growth, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache. The region's long history dates back thousands of years, but the modern city struggles to balance its traditional farming roots with the demands of a 21st century economy. Overall, Houzhen offers opportunity for those willing to navigate the red tape, but may not be the best fit for those seeking a more relaxed pace of life.