Southwest China's Guizhou Province has attracted surging holidaymakers this summer, who respite from the sweltering heat and explore the area's diverse natural beauty.
Nestled in mountains, the Qiaotou Community of Bijie City is one of the cooler summer resorts in Guizhou, where houses are scattered across the slopes at an average altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level.
Its summer temperature is just 19 degrees Celsius on average.
Xi Kaiyun, a Qiaotou resident, runs a homestay which has been fully booked since April.
"We have 62 rooms. They've been fully booked from April until now," he said.
"I came here for the first time four years ago. My first impression was the climate – it's so cool and perfect for us senior folks to vacation. The people here are honest, and the owner is very kind to us. So we are here every year, every time in a group of 20 or 30," said Zhao Yusheng, a returned visitor.
RV camping has also gained popularity. To accommodate demands, local authorities have transformed a parking lot into a temporary RV campsite, equipped with standard parking spaces, water and electricity supply, and garbage disposal services. Over 700 RVs have already parked there this summer.
Further south in Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, the Maolan National Nature Reserve has seen groups of students to explore the wonders of nature. They visit caves, learn about formation of karst landscapes and comprehend the important roles of plants and animals in the ecosystem.
"I was overwhelmed at the very sight of those spectacular scenes. Pictures only offer a rough view. If you look closely, you can find tiny insects on the wall and unique patterns. Such an environment requires everyone's effort to protect. Humans and nature are coexisting, so we must protect the environment," said Gou Wanyi, a visitor.
Cooler climate in Guizhou draws crowds of summer holidaymakers
