Korla, China

Capital City

The population of Korla stands at a hefty 779,352 people, making it the second-largest city in China's Xinjiang province. While the city boasts a thriving economy centered around oil and agriculture, the harsh continental climate with extreme seasonal temperature swings is a persistent headache. Bureaucracy is also a constant challenge, as evidenced by the 2019 incident where over 170 Communist officials were immolated during an anti-government riot. In short, Korla is best suited for those with a high tolerance for red tape and a willingness to brave the region's extreme weather.