Xuanhua, China

With a population of 542,358, Xuanhua is a major industrial hub in northwest China, but it's not for the faint of heart. The city's history as a strategic military outpost means it's still saddled with heavy bureaucracy, a persistent headache for newcomers. And while the grapes are plentiful, the climate can be harsh, with frigid winters that make the 180 km journey to Beijing feel even longer. This gritty, hardworking city is best suited for those with a strong stomach and a tolerance for red tape.