Lishu, China

Capital City

With a population of 24,870,895, Lishu is a far cry from the cosmopolitan hubs you may have in mind. The bureaucracy here is a persistent headache, and the climate is not for the faint of heart. While the city has seen rapid development in recent years, it remains a challenging environment for those not accustomed to its unique charms. Lishu is likely best suited for those seeking an authentic, gritty Chinese experience, far from the comforts of the big cities.