The first of October marks the 69th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China’s founding and the start of what has come to be known as Golden Week. Each year, thousands of travellers use this public holiday to escape the city’s confines and do a spot of well-deserved vacation. If you’re one of these lucky individuals, perhaps these enticing destinations may be exactly what you need. Here are our top 4 recommendations for a long weekend getaway during October’s Golden Week.
Tokyo, Japan
Temperature: 15-22 degrees Celsius
Major Attractions: Tokyo Disneyland, the Imperial Palace, Senso-ji Temple
Why visit during Golden Week: While cherry blossom season may be a distant memory, visitors will be treated to Tokyo’s spectacular fall foliage, washing the entire city in swaths of reds, oranges and yellows.
Bagan, Myanmar
Temperature: 25-38 degrees Celsius
Major Attractions: Ananda Temple, Shwezigon Pagoda, hot air balloon rides
Why visit during Golden Week: Ditch the crowds heading to more bustling metropolises and find inner peace amidst the countless Buddhist monuments and rolling plains. Better yet, hop aboard a hot air balloon at sunset to get a birds-eye view of the ancient ruins and to snap that perfect Instagram shot.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Temperature: 22-32 degrees Celsius
Major Attractions: Mountain-top Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple, Elephant Nature Park, Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls
Why visit during Golden Week: Fancy channeling your inner explorer? Chiang Mai offers fantastic hikes dotted with well-maintained temples and hidden waterfalls. It’s also great for families, with a visit to the famed Elephant Nature Park sure to thrill your little ones.
Kandy, Sri Lanka
Temperature: 24-30 degrees Celsius
Major Attractions: Tea plantations, Knuckles Mountain Range, Temple of the Tooth
Why visit during Golden Week: If you’re sick and tired of beach holidays and city getaways, perhaps it’s time for a driving vacation. Hit the road and avoid the crowds as you wend through picturesque tea plantations, steep mountain ranges and rolling green landscapes. (See also: A roadtrip guide to Sri Lanka)