Lijiang, China

Capital City

With a population of 1.25 million, Lijiang is a sprawling prefecture-level city, far larger than the quaint "Old Town" that attracts most tourists. While the historic architecture and natural beauty are certainly captivating, the day-to-day realities of living here can be a persistent headache - from navigating the heavy bureaucracy to coping with the region's unpredictable climate. Lijiang's appeal is mainly for those drawn to its rich cultural diversity and proximity to outdoor adventures, rather than those seeking an easy, cosmopolitan lifestyle.