Top 10 rural retreats in China 2011

China's vast territory is dotted with many picturesque towns and villages, which boast cultural relics, distinctive architectures and rustic pleasures.

In an annual competitiveness report, Hong Kong-based China Institute of City Competitiveness (CICC) gives its ranking of the country's 10 most beautiful towns and villages.

Here are the 10 most beautiful towns and villages ranked by CICC:

   Niudachang, Guizhou (贵州牛大场)