Shandong Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Shandong, China with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover its must-visit places, hiking and biking routes, local food and drink scenes, accommodations, and travel tips.


Introduction to Shandong

Shandong is a province in North China, located on the eastern coast of the country. Its name means “East of the Mountain” and it has a rich history and cultural heritage. Its unique combination of mountains, beaches, and history makes it a popular destination for both domestic and international visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Shandong

Shandong is home to many culturally important attractions and natural wonders. If you’re planning a trip to this province, make sure to include the following places in your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mount Tai: A UNESCO World Heritage site and the most sacred mountain in China, known for its stunning beauty and significance in Chinese history
  • Confucius Temple: A memorial temple dedicated to the famous ancient Chinese philosopher and educator, Confucius
  • Qufu City: The birthplace of Confucius and the center of Confucian culture in China
  • Shandong Provincial Museum: A large museum that showcases the history and culture of Shandong province, including archeological finds, traditional arts and crafts, and more

Natural Attractions of Shandong: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Yantai Penglai Pavilion Scenic Area: A seaside area known for its beautiful pavilions, gardens, and beaches
  • Qingdao Beaches: A popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, with a range of beachside restaurants and hotels
  • Lao Mountain: A scenic mountain range known for its beautiful waterfalls, forests, and temples
  • Weifang Kite Museum: A museum dedicated to the history and culture of kites in China, with a large collection of Chinese kites and exhibitions on kite-making techniques

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shandong

Shandong is also home to many exciting hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the province’s scenic landscapes. Some of the most popular hiking and biking routes in Shandong include:

  • Taishan Mountain Hiking Route: A challenging hike that leads to the summit of Mount Tai, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape
  • Qingdao Coastal Biking Trail: A scenic biking trail that winds along the coast of Qingdao, passing by beautiful beaches, seaside villages, and rocky cliffs
  • Laoshan Mountain Biking Route: A scenic biking trail that takes you through the lush mountain forests of Laoshan, with stunning views of the sea and surrounding areas

Best Things to Do in Shandong: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking, biking, and exploring cultural and natural attractions, there are many other exciting things you can do in Shandong. Some of the best activities and tours to consider include:

  • Visit a tea plantation: Shandong is famous for producing high-quality tea, so why not visit a tea plantation and learn about tea-making techniques and the history of tea in China?
  • Attend a traditional Chinese opera: Shandong has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many traditional Chinese operas. Attending a performance can be a great way to experience the local culture.
  • Participate in a calligraphy workshop: Chinese calligraphy is an art form that has been practiced for thousands of years. Participating in a calligraphy workshop can be a unique and rewarding experience.
  • Enjoy local delicacies: Shandong is known for its delicious cuisine, such as its succulent seafood, savoury pancakes, and refreshing local beer.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shandong

If you have a week to explore Shandong, we recommend the following itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Qufu City and Confucius Temple
  • Day 3-4: Yantai Penglai Pavilion Scenic Area and Qingdao Beaches
  • Day 5-6: Taishan Mountain and Weifang Kite Museum
  • Day 7: Lao Mountain and Shandong Provincial Museum

Food and Drink Scene of Shandong

Shandong is famous for its rich and diverse cuisine, with a range of dishes that are both delicious and unique. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Shandong pancakes: A savoury and crispy dish made with flour, water, and various fillings such as minced pork, vegetables, or seafood.
  • Seafood: Shandong has a long coastline and is famous for its fresh and flavourful seafood. Some popular seafood dishes include braised sea cucumber, fried squid, and steamed clams.
  • Jiuzhuan (nine-fold stew): A traditional dish made with nine different ingredients, including chicken, duck, beef, and veggies, slow-cooked in a broth for hours.

Local Beverages

  • Qingdao beer: One of the most famous beers in China, Qingdao beer is brewed in the city of Qingdao and is known for its refreshing taste and quality ingredients.
  • Jiaodong yellow wine: A type of Chinese wine made from glutinous rice and wheat, with a sweet and mellow flavour.

Where to Stay in Shandong: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Shandong offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, including luxury hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and homestays. Here are some recommended places to stay in Shandong:

  • Wyndham Jinjiang Resort: A luxury resort located in Qingdao, offering breathtaking sea views, luxurious rooms, and a range of amenities and activities.
  • Sheraton Qiandao Lake Resort: A five-star resort in Zhejiang province, offering spacious rooms, lake views, and various outdoor activities, such as hiking and water sports.
  • Qingdao Kaiyue International Youth Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Qingdao, offering comfortable dorms and private rooms, a rooftop terrace, and easy access to local attractions.

What to Buy in Shandong: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Shandong is home to many unique and traditional handicrafts, such as pottery, embroidery, and paper-cutting. Here are some recommended souvenirs and local products to bring home from Shandong:

  • Laoshan green tea: A high-quality green tea grown in the mountains of Laoshan, with a refreshing and delicate flavour.
  • Shandong embroidery: A traditional form of embroidery that has been practiced for centuries, with intricate designs and bright colours.
  • Confucian calligraphy: Shandong is the birthplace of Confucius, and calligraphy works relating to Confucianism are a unique and meaningful souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Shandong

Shandong has a rich cultural heritage and unique traditions that may be different from other parts of China. Here are some elements of Shandong’s local culture and customs:

  • Confucianism: Shandong is considered the birthplace of Confucianism, a philosophy that has had a significant impact on Chinese culture and society.
  • Dragon and Lion Dance: A traditional dance performed during festivals and celebrations, with performers dressed as dragons and lions, accompanied by drums and cymbals.
  • Family Values: Shandong locals place a great importance on family and traditional values, and it is considered impolite to refuse a family members’ invitation to dinner.
  • 卫生间 (wèi shēng jiān) “Public restrooms”: Unlike other parts of China, you may have to leave a small fee for the public restroom when traveling in Shandong.

Best Time to Visit Shandong

The best time to visit Shandong is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be quite cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shandong

As a foreign visitor, it’s important to be respectful of Shandong’s local customs and traditions. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Learn some basic Mandarin phrases before your trip, such as “hello” (你好, nǐ hǎo) and “thank you” (谢谢, xiè xiè).
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.
  • Try local delicacies and participate in cultural activities to learn more about Shandong’s rich history and culture.
  • Bargain at local markets and shops to get the best prices.

Don’t:

  • Leave chopsticks upright in a bowl of food, as this is considered bad luck.
  • Touch or climb on historical sites, monuments, and statues.
  • Photograph people without their permission.
  • Forget to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.

Safety and Health

Shandong is a relatively safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. However, it’s always important to take precautions and keep in mind the following safety and health tips:

Safety in Shandong

  • Carry a copy of your passport and visa with you at all times, and keep the original in a safe place.
  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and tourist attractions.
  • Follow traffic rules when driving or crossing the street, as traffic can be chaotic in some cities.

Health in Shandong

  • Drink only bottled or boiled water, and avoid ice made from tap water.
  • Use mosquito repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect against mosquito-borne diseases.
  • Keep any necessary medication with you, as some medicines may not be readily available in China.

Getting to Shandong: Transportation Options and Logistics

Shandong is easily accessible by plane, train, or bus from most major cities in China. Here are some transportation options to consider when planning your trip:

Airports Near Shandong

  • Jinan Yaoqiang International Airport: Located in Jinan, the capital city of Shandong, this airport offers flights to many domestic and international destinations.
  • Qingdao Liuting International Airport: Located in Qingdao, this airport is the second largest in Shandong and offers flights to many major Chinese cities, as well as destinations in Asia and Europe.

Bus Stations Near Shandong

  • Jinan Long-distance Bus Station: Located in Jinan, this bus station offers buses to many cities in Shandong, as well as other provinces in China.
  • Qingdao Long-distance Bus Station: Located in Qingdao, this bus station offers buses to many cities in Shandong, as well as other provinces in China.

Other Options

  • Train: Shandong has an extensive railway network, and high-speed trains connect Shandong with many major Chinese cities.
  • Car: If you are comfortable driving in China, renting a car can be a convenient way to explore the province.

How to Get Around in Shandong

In Shandong, there are many transportation options to help you get around, including taxis, buses, and subways. Here are some tips to keep in mind when getting around Shandong:

  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available in most cities in Shandong, and are relatively cheap compared to other parts of China.
  • Buses: Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around Shandong. Be sure to check the route and schedule before boarding a bus.
  • Subway: Major cities in Shandong, such as Qingdao, have subway systems that are fast, efficient, and easy to use.

Where to Go Next from Shandong: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Shandong is located in a prime location for exploring other parts of China. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Shanghai: A bustling metropolis known for its modern architecture, shopping, and nightlife.
  • Beijing: The capital city of China, home to many historical and cultural attractions such as the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City.
  • Huangshan: A mountain range in Anhui province known for its stunning natural scenery and ancient temples.

Conclusion

Shandong has something for every type of traveler, from its stunning natural landscapes to its rich history and culture. With this comprehensive travel guide, you should have a good idea of what to visit, eat, and explore during your trip to this fascinating province. Whether you’re interested in hiking, sightseeing, or simply relaxing by the beach, Shandong is a destination that will leave a lasting impression.

The location of Shandong Province The location of Shandong Province


    Dezhou
    Dongying
    Heze
    Jinan
    Jining
    Laixi
    Laiyang
    Mount Tai
    Penglai
    Qingzhou
    Qufu
    Weihai