Kaifeng, China

Capital City

The population of 4,824,016 may seem impressive, but Kaifeng is plagued by chronic flooding that has devastated the city over 300 times since the Song dynasty. This ancient capital is a major research hub, home to a key national university, but the bureaucracy is a persistent headache for residents. Summers are broiling and humid, while winters bring frigid temperatures - not for the faint of heart. Overall, Kaifeng's rich history and cultural offerings may captivate some, but the relentless natural disasters and administrative hurdles make it a tough sell for the average expat.