Sanming, China

With a population of over 2.4 million, Sanming is a sprawling prefecture-level city in western Fujian. The mountainous terrain takes up 82% of the land, leaving limited arable space. While the natural landscapes like the Taining Golden Lake are touted as tourist draws, the reality is a persistent bureaucratic headache for residents navigating the local government. The population has actually declined by around 70,000 over the past decade, as more people leave Sanming than arrive. For those seeking an authentic Chinese experience away from the coastal megacities, Sanming may offer a more affordable and laidback alternative. But the remoteness and red tape mean this inland city is best suited for adventurous expats or retirees content with a slower pace of life.