Xinglong, China

With a population of just 41,411, Xinglong is a sleepy backwater in rural Hebei province. The county covers a sprawling 3,116 square kilometers, but the majority of the 270,000 residents live in the 9 towns and 9 townships under its administration. Bureaucratic headaches are a persistent issue, as navigating the local government can be a frustrating experience. On the plus side, the region's climate is mild, and the Beijing–Chengde Railway provides a connection to the capital. Overall, Xinglong is best suited for those seeking a quieter pace of life far from the crowds and chaos of China's megacities.