Dezhou Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and things to do in Dezhou, along with local customs, safety tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Dezhou

Dezhou is a city located in the northwestern Shandong province in China, known for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural scenery, and soulful cuisine.

Dezhou City, also known as the “Lingxiao City,” boasts a history of more than three thousand years since the Shang Dynasty. The city’s abundance of natural resources, including rivers and fertile land, made it a cultural and economic crossroads since early times.

List of Places to Visit in Dezhou

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Dezhou Museum: One of China’s most extensive museums, housing precious artifacts and exhibits that illustrate the city’s historical and cultural significance.
  • Xiqing Confucian Temple： A serene complex situated at the heart of Dezhou, inspired by the ancient Chinese design, and dedicated to Confucius, the famous philosopher.
  • Qingyun Tower： A famous ancient architectural design, the Qingyun Tower is one of the most famous attractions in Dezhou.

Natural Attractions of Dezhou: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dezhou Yellow River Estuary National Nature Reserve: A hallmark of natural reserves worldwide, which offers visitors an unforgettable experience with breathtaking landscapes, over 200 species of birds, and a chance to observe the rare yellow river dolphin.
  • Xixia Scenic Area: A magnificent landscape stretching over more than 300 square kilometers, showcasing a myriad of geological formations and diverse flora and fauna.
  • Great Wall of Qi： A well-preserved sector of the Great wall of China, offering a vibrant scenic view of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dezhou

  • Dezhou Yellow River Wetland Park: A nature park along the banks of the Yellow River, offering miles of hiking trails and cycling tracks. With scenic views and stunning landscapes, it is a favorite spot for nature lovers.
  • Acrobatic Valley Scenic Area: A unique destination in Dezhou, Acrobatic Valley Scenic Area boasts breathtaking scenery, from majestic mountain peaks to valleys, caves, and exotic flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Dezhou: Activities and Tours

  • Experience the Qi Culture: Get to know the city’s unique cultural charms, history, and lifestyle with a Qi Culture Tour that takes you to landmarks, historical sites.
  • Discover the Art of Chinese Kung Fu: Take time to learn and experience the age-old Chinese martial art Kung fu at a local training school or sports club.
  • Enjoy Traditional Chinese Food: Dezhou is famous for its delicacies, particularly the braised chicken, a unique local dish, and other culinary treats prepared with the freshest ingredients by skilled chefs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dezhou

Day 1: Explore the historical landmarks, including the Dezhou Museum, Xiqing Confucian Temple, and Qingyun Tower.

Day 2: Discover the city’s natural landscapes at Xixia Scenic Area and Great Wall of Qi.

Day 3-4: Take a Qi Culture Tour, which covers essential landmarks, displays typical lifestyle and culture, and taste local foods.

Day 5: Visit the Dezhou Yellow River Wetland Park to enjoy outdoor activities, including hiking and cycling.

Day 6: Experience the local art of Kung Fu at a training school or sports club.

Day 7: Enjoy the delicious food of Dezhou, including the famous braised chicken and other culinary delights.

Food and Drink Scene of Dezhou

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dezhou Braised Chicken: Dezhou’s signature dish, which is cooked with high-quality breed chicken, soy sauce, sugar, and spices, has a tender, juicy flavor that everyone loves.
  • Baotu Crisp Cake: A kind of candy that is made of wheat flour, sugar, and maltose, baked in a local traditional oven, and stored in a special container.
  • Xiajin Fried Cake: A stuffed cake that comes in various flavors, including meat, vegetables, and cheese, the Xiajin Fried cake is a must-try snack.

Local Beverages

  • Dezhou Beer: Since 1966, Dezhou Beer has been a favorite local beer, distinct for its delicate aroma and refreshing taste.
  • Zuiwojiu: A sweet rice wine, Zuiwojiu is a traditional alcoholic beverage made from rice, wheat or barley, mixed with lactose and sugar to give it a unique flavor.

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

  • Sheraton Dezhou: Conveniently located in the central business district, this hotel provides a perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional ambiance, with luxurious amenities, dining, and easy access to key attractions.
  • Ibis Dezhou: A budget-friendly accommodation option, the Ibis Dezhou offers a comfortable, convenient stay for business or leisure travelers, with modern amenities and well-equipped rooms.
  • Dezhou GreenTree Inn: A value-for-money choice that provides the basics, the Dezhou GreenTree Inn offers clean and comfortable rooms, 24-hours service, and a great location for access to local attractions.

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

  • Paper-Cut Art: An ancient craft that originated in Dezhou, paper-cut art is a must-buy souvenir, with intricate designs that reflect the local culture.
  • Dehua Porcelain: Known worldwide for its superior quality, Dehua porcelain is another unique souvenir that is a symbol of Dezhou’s cultural heritage.

Local Culture and Customs of Dezhou

Dezhou has a strong culture and customs characterized by a unique and colorful heritage that resonates with the people of Dezhou. Traditional Chinese values like family and respect are very important in daily life, alongside respect for the environment, Chinese calligraphy and Kung Fu.

Best Time to Visit Dezhou

The best time to visit Dezhou is during the spring and autumn seasons, from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild and comfortable. Visitors enjoy clear skies and bright sunshine, and the natural landscapes boast a vibrant glow from the blooming flowers and colorful foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dezhou

Do:

  • Always carry cash; most establishments in Dezhou do not accept credit cards.
  • Try the local cuisine and delicacies for a unique taste of the city’s culinary heritage.
  • Respect local customs and values and take care not to offend the people’s religious, social, or cultural sensitivities.

Don’t:

  • Be loud or boisterous, especially in public places or when interacting with locals.
  • Take photographs or videos without getting permission first.
  • Disrespect traditions or beliefs of the people of Dezhou.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dezhou

Dezhou is a relatively safe city, with low crime rates and friendly locals who are always willing to help. It is advisable to take care of personal belongings when traveling and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Dezhou

Dezhou is a safe city with no major health concerns. Visitors are encouraged to take medical precautions before traveling to any foreign country and to carry with them a small first-aid kit.

Getting to Dezhou: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dezhou

  • Jinan Yaoqiang International Airport: Located in Jinan, the capital of Shandong province, this airport serves domestic flights as well as international flights to Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan.

Bus Stations Near Dezhou

  • Dezhou Bus Station: Located on Wenhua Road, this bus station serves various routes to other cities and destinations in Shandong province and beyond.

Other Options

  • High-Speed Trains: Dezhou has a high-speed railway station with daily services to Beijing, Shanghai, Qingdao, Jinan, and other cities.

How to Get Around in Dezhou

Dezhou has a well-developed bus system, with routes and schedules that cover most of the city’s major attractions and destinations. Taxis are also easily available and affordable for visitors who prefer a more convenient mode of transportation.

Where to Go Next from Dezhou: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Qufu: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and birthplace of China’s most famous philosopher, Confucius, Qufu is known for its rich history and cultural significance, located about 70 kilometers from Dezhou.
  • Mount Tai: Located in Tai’an City, Mount Tai is a famous mountain in China, known worldwide for its stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage, located about 110 kilometers from Dezhou.

Conclusion

Dezhou is a fascinating city, filled with both natural and man-made attractions. From stunning landscapes to rich cultural and historical landmarks, Dezhou has something for everyone, making it a preferred travel destination for both domestic and international visitors. With its welcoming locals, vibrant cuisine, and unique customs, Dezhou is a must-visit city for anyone planning a trip to China.