Yingpan, China

With a population of just 37,406, Yingpan is hardly the bustling metropolis many imagine when they think of China. The ancient mummy discovered here dates back to the 4th-5th centuries CE, a stark reminder of the region's rich history - and its relative isolation. While the deceased was adorned in luxurious Hellenistic-style clothes, today's residents likely face a persistent bureaucratic headache navigating life in this remote corner of the Tarim Basin. Whether you're an elite member of the long-defunct Shanshan Kingdom or a modern-day adventurer, Yingpan may test your patience, but it offers a window into China's fascinating past.