Huicheng, China

With a population of 125,919, Huicheng is no quaint backwater. The bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as is the case across much of China. While the city may lack the dazzle of coastal hubs, it provides a more grounded, authentic experience for those willing to navigate the administrative hurdles. Ultimately, Huicheng caters best to pragmatic expats seeking an unvarnished taste of the Chinese interior.