JuanPabloC

I have been living in Beijing for a year and I want to start exploring other parts of China on long weekends and holidays. I have already done Shanghai twice. What are the cities or regions that people who actually live here would recommend? I am interested in history, food, and getting off the tourist trail. I have heard good things about Chengdu, Guilin, and Yunnan province but I am not sure where to start. What are the places that surprised you most?