Kuandian, China

With a population of 334,636, Kuandian is a remote county in northeastern China that offers little to attract foreign residents. The county's boron deposits account for half of China's total, but the long, frigid winters and heavy bureaucracy are persistent headaches. Kuandian's location along the North Korean border also raises safety concerns. This county is best suited for those with a specific professional interest or connection to the region, not those seeking an easy life abroad.