Yangzhou, China

Capital City

A population of over 4.5 million, yet Yangzhou offers little in the way of convenience. The city's historic charms are undeniable, but with a bureaucracy that's a "persistent headache" and a climate prone to extreme temperatures, this former merchant hub is better suited to hardy tourists than expats seeking a comfortable life. Those seeking a vibrant cultural experience may find Yangzhou's famed gardens and storytelling tradition worth the hassle, but most would do better to look elsewhere.