Pingwu County, China

With a population of just 126,357, Pingwu County is one of the smallest counties in Sichuan province. While it boasts a rich 1,700-year history and picturesque mountain scenery, the reality is that this remote outpost is a bureaucratic headache for most would-be residents. The average temperature of 14.7°C means the climate is mild, but the county's 94% land area above 1,000m elevation creates accessibility challenges. And with the giant panda reserve taking up a significant portion of the territory, housing and job options are severely limited. Pingwu is best suited for die-hard nature enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in China's vanishing wilderness, not the average expat seeking modern comforts.