Tai’an, China

With a population of over 5.4 million, Tai'an is a sprawling metropolis in western Shandong Province. The city centers around the iconic Mount Tai, a major pilgrimage site and tourist draw. However, newcomers should brace for a heavy bureaucratic burden - the local government has been aggressively pushing tourism development, which means endless red tape and permits for foreign residents. And the climate is no joke, with frigid winters averaging -2°C and sweltering summers reaching 26°C. Overall, Tai'an caters best to devoted Taoists and hardy outdoor enthusiasts willing to navigate its administrative headaches.