2025 Rizhao Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

# Address: Rizhao Binhai National Forest Park Opening hours: 8:00–18:00 Tickets: Free! Transportation: Bus routes 5/6 go directly to the Forest Park Station Self-driving: The scenic area parking lot has a maximum fee of CNY 10/day (it is recommended to arrive before 8:00 during peak season) ## Travel Guide Rizhao Binhai Forest Park is divided into a north park and a south park. It is recommended to start your visit from the north park. North Park Entrance → Dawn Redwood Forest → Ferris Wheel → Seaside Beach → South Park Entrance → Lotus Pond → Sea View Platform 1. Dawn Redwood Forest: The straight dawn redwood forest path is super photogenic. The morning sunlight shining through the leaves is especially beautiful. It is recommended to wear light-colored clothing for photos. 2. Ferris wheel: You can overlook the entire forest park and coastline. The scenery is best at sunset. 3. Seaside beach: There are few people and fine sand. It is suitable for children to dig in the sand and play in the water. Remember to bring slippers and sunscreen. 4. Lotus pond: The lotus flowers bloom in summer, and there is a wooden boardwalk in the pond for close viewing. 5. Sea View Platform: Enjoy a 270-degree view of the sea with no blind spots. You can see distant fishing boats when the weather is good. Date of shooting: May 8, 2025 This summer, bring your guide and experience the blue sea and sky! Tips: Shared bicycles can be rented in the park. It is recommended to bring some snacks, as there are few dining options in the park. Sunscreen! Sunscreen! Sunscreen! The ultraviolet rays on the beach are strong.

🌟Sheraton Hotel Rizhao 🏖️Great Location I just got back from the Sheraton Hotel Rizhao, and this place really wowed me! The hotel is right by the sea, very close to Wanpingkou Beach in Rizhao, and it's just a few minutes' walk to the beach. There are also many attractions nearby, such as Dongyi Town, which has many special snacks and trinkets, making it a lot of fun to wander around. There is also Lighthouse Square, where the lights come on at night, making it a beautiful place to take pictures! Staying here, you can wake up to the sound of the waves every day, which is so pleasant. 🛌Comprehensive Health and Fitness Facilities I was pleasantly surprised by the hotel's health and fitness facilities. The gym is fully equipped with treadmills, elliptical machines, and all kinds of strength training equipment, all of which are brand new. I work out there every morning and feel much more energized. What I like most is the swimming pool, where the water temperature is just right, and there are lounge chairs by the pool where you can relax while sunbathing. The hotel also offers yoga classes, and I took one, the teacher taught very carefully, and the atmosphere was very good. 🛒Great Stay Experience When I checked in, the front desk staff was very welcoming, quickly helped me with the procedures, and gave me a small gift, a bottle of local specialty wine, which felt very thoughtful. The room was also very spacious, and the bed was very soft, and I slept very soundly. The room had a large window, and when I opened the curtains, I could see the sea. Every time I woke up, I could see the beautiful sea view, which made me feel better. The hotel's breakfast was also very rich, with a variety of Chinese and Western dishes, and I ate my fill every day. 🌟Heartwarming Little Details There are also some small details here that touched me. One time I came back late, and the front desk staff waited for me and told me to be careful on the road. The hotel's cleaning lady was also very conscientious and cleaned the room every day. Another time I forgot to bring my swimsuit, and the hotel's store lent me one, which was really thoughtful. 📝Other Tips If you are also planning to go to the Sheraton Hotel Rizhao, I have a few suggestions for you. First, book your room in advance, especially on weekends, when it will be more crowded. Second, you can try the hotel's seafood buffet dinner, the ingredients are very fresh and the price is very reasonable. Third, when you go to the beach, remember to wear sunscreen, the ultraviolet rays on the beach are very strong. Also, there are many delicious restaurants around the hotel, don't miss them. In short, the Sheraton Hotel Rizhao is really a great choice, and I will definitely go again next time!

Rizhao, a small city located in Shandong Province, is a place perfect for purely watching the sea and relaxing. Here is a travel guide for Rizhao that I have organized for you. 📷 Recommended places to visit: - Lighthouse Scenic Area: Green lawns in spring, heart-shaped rocks. - World Sailing Championship Base: Take a boat during the day, watch the blue tears at night. - Wanpingkou No.2 Gate's Coffee and Sea: A seaside coffee shop with a romantic atmosphere. - Wanpingkou No.3 Gate: Wedding park, rich in photo props. - Sunshine Coast Scenic Area No.2 Gate: Carousel, small lighthouse, love sign, etc. - Sunshine Coast No.6 Gate: A parking lot where you can sit in the car and watch the sea and sunrise. - Daquangou Wharf: Red lighthouse, seafood purchase. - Xingdao: Shangshui Coffee, Rizhao's little Jeju Island. - Renjiatai: Large reef area, seafood purchase. - Forest Park: Fine sand beach, vast forest. 🌅 Sunrise time: Around 5:30 am during Qingming. 🏨 Accommodation recommendations: - Near Wanda Plaza, Antai International Square, and University Town. - Near Mango Times Square, the price might be slightly cheaper. 🍜 Food recommendations: - Sea sand noodles, sea intestine mixed rice. - Buy seafood at the wharf and process it yourself. 🛵 Transportation: - You can rent an electric bike to ride during the holiday. 👗 Dressing guide: - The temperature during the May Day holiday is between 12-20°C, with a large temperature difference between morning and evening, so bring a thick coat. Rizhao, a place that immerses you in the blue sea and verdant mountains. Pack your bags and let's explore this beautiful seaside city together!🧳🌊

Day1️⃣ ❄️🚄Arrive at Rizhao West Station around 10 o'clock→Vientiane Hui (half an hour by 🚗 to the homestay), we live near Vientiane Hui, it's convenient to go anywhere, large shopping mall. 🍚Lunch: Chocolate Fisherman's House (restaurant suitable for Cantonese) ⏰Afternoon: Went to Wanpingkou Scenic Area, Gate 3 is so beautiful! The sea is so big, the sea water is very blue, the wind is also very strong, it's too cold, you must wear thicker! Take pictures. ⏰Evening: Go to Dongyi Town for snacks, walk on the commercial street, characteristic town~ There are many characteristic snacks, a bowl of sea sand noodles is not bad, very fresh. Grilled mackerel, pot stickers are very fragrant! Day2️⃣ ⏰Watch the sunrise, Lighthouse Square, standing on the reef to take pictures is so beautiful! ⏰Breakfast: Went to eat big buns near Wanpingkou, wonton, pancakes🥞, it's very cold early in the morning! ⏰Then went to Rizhao Art Museum, the museum is connected, suitable for viewing and taking pictures ⏰In the afternoon, it's not so cold to go to the Mountain Sea Sky Scenic Area, there are many check-in points, very suitable for watching the sunrise🌅sunset🌄 ⏰Continued to the Science and Technology Museum, those who are interested can go, there are many children Day3️⃣ ⏰Egret Bay Park, it's so beautiful here, highly recommend to come here for photos and relax, then after lunch, take the high-speed rail home! Ended the two and a half days of travel~ Happy and fulfilling~ Next, welcome 2024! ✨Small suggestions before travel 1. Suggest to make a good travel route strategy to avoid spending time on the road. 2. Buy tickets, tickets, etc. in advance, remember to leave early! 3. Don't overwalk, wear a pair of comfortable shoes! 4. The temperature in Rizhao in winter is low, remember to bring warm equipment. 5. Be sure to check the local weather forecast☀️ when watching the sunrise. 6. Don't go into the enthusiastic restaurant. 7. Don't buy souvenirs in the scenic area, it's much cheaper online.

Rizhao is a really peaceful city, with a new urban area along the coast. The exhibition hall, stadium and five-star hotel are all very new in this area. It is a 3 km walk from the hotel, which is very suitable for Citywalk. It's not very busy during non-activity periods, but the prices are not high either. The scenery is beautiful, the rooms are new and the prices are not high. It is worth checking in. The hotel is relatively new and the lobby is very grand!! It's a great movie!! The lobby also has artworks created in collaboration with the art gallery. It's very comfortable to walk around the hotel. The room is large, spacious and bright, with a wide view. Is the executive lounge well designed? The view is first-class. It is very relaxing to have a drink and enjoy the sea breeze here in the evening. The hotel's public area design, pool and SPA are all very good. The front desk service was also very good, leaving a wonderful memory of the Rizhao trip. Although the children's playground in the hotel is not very big, it is enough for children to play. If you are traveling with children, you can take them for a walk in the hotel.

This grilled restaurant is really delicious, I ordered a combo for 2 people for just over 2k but the food is very good quality. The restaurant has an extremely spacious space, and there is even a robot that delivers food to the table. If you come to Taichung, don't miss it because there are so many locals, sometimes there are no tables #deliciousfood

While talking about traveling to Japan with my colleagues, Chicken skin!!! Everyone shouted in unison And then, huh? A new place opened? While looking around in the drizzle, If you pass a Japanese 烤肉 restaurant and go up to the second floor inside, there is a yakitori restaurant! They cook each plate warmly as soon as you order And even Asahi draft beer! #gourmettour #gourmettour

Getting There - Attractions - Hotels - Food & Restaurants - Shopping -

rizhao is a perfect destination for a weekend or family holiday. kilometers of clean beach. the City is easy to reach by high speed train or car

wonderful beach , people’s so nice #merrychristmas

The first time I saw the powder, I was gentle! On that day, four of us rode a sightseeing bicycle in the vast park and screamed at it. The large pink grass appeared like a cloud, and the mountains and lakes were blue. "Ten miles of wheel hooves are constantly, how many pink flowers are colorless", a small grass is so beautiful, right? The texture of is also soft, the legs are not touched at all, one can not see the color, and even into a pink cloud. October is the flowering period of pink grass, and go see them in the fall! Huaxiangzi Scenic Area, Xihu Town, Donggang District, Rizhao City (2 km from Wulian and West Lake exits of Ridong Expressway) scenic area ticket 35 (inside the park, another ride) Open date from October 1st to November 15th

The Wusanyi Arsenal is located in Wangwu Mountain, the hometown of Yugong Yishan. It was built in the 1970s and is mainly responsible for the production of military weapons. It is a typical representative of many three lines. Nowadays, the rumbling machine's rotating sound is no longer screaming, instead it is a new look for the new look - "the years town" is full of vitality. With the reform of the national system, the May 3rd arsenal has gradually moved out, and the workers returned to the city. Only a large, empty workshop indicates the prosperity of the past. Later, people used these idle arsenals to create the current "small towns" and built the "Arsenal Hotel" on the basis of this, to find the youthful youth. The May 13th factory, which has faded from the prosperity scene, not only took away the hustle and bustle of the people, but also took away the hope lights in the depths of the Taihang Mountains. Fortunately, today, decades later, the abandoned factories were used. The Jedi is born again, and writes a praise song for the development of a new era.

Visiting Rizhao this summer, I struck gold with Yun Cai Designer Aesthetics Hotel (Qufu Normal University Night Market Branch) ✨ Must share this find with everyone! Tucked away in a cultural creative park, the hotel is surrounded by art galleries and creative commercial streets 🎨 The artistic vibe is off the charts! Upon entering, the water feature corridor sets a dreamy mood with dancing light and shadows—like stepping into a miniature art world. Plus, the fascinating sculptures make for perfect photo ops 📸 Art lovers will be thrilled! Service is equally delightful 🥰 Staff proactively learn your preferences and greet you with warm smiles at check-in, making you feel right at home. With 113 room types ranging from business suites to family rooms, my minimalist yet cozy room featured an ultra-comfy bed for heavenly sleep 💤 The park's amenities are unbeatable! Just downstairs you'll find an independent bookstore, bar, convenience store, and gym 🥳 Mornings are for tea by the bay window enjoying the view, while afternoons call for coffee and books downstairs—no need to go far for ultimate relaxation and convenience. This stay won me over completely with its artistic charm, thoughtful service, and superb facilities 💗 I'll definitely choose it again for my next Rizhao trip. Don't miss out, friends—come experience this fantastic "urban living room" concept for yourself 😍~

Complete Travel Guide for Rizhao: Enjoy 3 Days and 2 Nights Without Any Hassle. Everyone, this coastal town of Rizhao is truly a hidden gem! Blue skies, clear seas, golden sandy beaches, and seafood feasts until you’re full—it’s simply a vacation paradise. Here’s a super detailed guide, so quickly save it and get ready to go! [Transportation Guide] By Plane: Rizhao Shanzihe Airport. After landing, you can take the airport shuttle bus to various stops in the city or take a taxi directly. It takes about 30-40 minutes and costs around 60-80 RMB. By Train/High-speed Rail: Rizhao Station and Rizhao West Station are conveniently located. After arriving at the station, you can choose to take a bus, taxi, or shared bike to your destination. City Transportation: Bus: Bus routes cover most scenic spots. Download the “Rizhao Bus” app to check routes and real-time bus info. It’s convenient and affordable. Taxi: Starting fare is 6-8 RMB. Taxi rides to attractions within the city usually cost less than 30 RMB. Shared Bikes/Electric Scooters: Found everywhere in the streets and alleys. Riding one along the coast is super relaxing, and you can stop anytime to take photos and check in. [Accommodation Recommendations] Seaside Hotels: The top choice for those who want to see the sea anytime! For example, Sheraton Rizhao Hotel offers sea view rooms with amazing views and attentive service; there’s also the Ocean Aesthetic Pavilion Hotel, featuring an Instagram-worthy sea view ball court and Shangshui Coffee, both artistic and romantic. Near University Town: High cost-performance, full of delicious food, and a strong local vibe. Moka Art Hotel has a nice environment, close to the night market and the seaside, making travel convenient. Around Wanda: Prime location with one-stop shopping, dining, and movie options. Puyue Zhiyahai Sea View Hotel is close to the sea, with new room facilities and comfortable stays. [Attraction Highlights] Wanpingkou Seaside Scenic Area: Rizhao’s signature attraction, known as the “city’s living room” for a reason! Golden sandy beaches paired with deep blue sea make every photo stunning. Highly recommend Gate 3, which has many trendy photo spots like the Sea Oath and the Romantic Treehouse, perfect for capturing great shots. Lighthouse Scenic Area: Rizhao’s iconic landmark. The white lighthouse against black rocks is especially spectacular at sunrise and sunset, with the lighthouse glowing in the colorful sky—perfect for photos. At low tide, you can also see the romantic “Heart-shaped Sea.” [Food Recommendations] Seafood Feast: Chocolate Fisherman’s House: The seafood is incredibly fresh. The freshly steamed seafood pot is a must-try, with original flavors that let you taste the sea. Special Snacks: Haisha Noodles: A Rizhao specialty noodle dish with fresh and delicious broth and chewy noodles. Definitely try it. Rizhao Pancakes: Fragrant, soft, and chewy, can be rolled with various fillings. Perfect for eating on the go. Fried Skewers: Rizhao’s fried skewers have a unique flavor with special sauces. Recommended to try at the University Town night market. [Travel Tips] 1. Check the weather forecast and tide table in advance to plan your itinerary reasonably. Watching the sunrise and beachcombing require the right timing. 2. UV rays are strong by the sea, so be sure to take sun protection measures. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat. 3. When eating seafood, remember to pair it with some ginger vinegar sauce to remove fishy smells and keep warm. If you have a sensitive stomach, don’t overeat to avoid discomfort.

Wulian Mountain, located in Wulian County, Rizhao City, Shandong Province, is a national AAAA-level tourist attraction and forest park, named after its five main peaks resembling lotus flowers. Renowned for its "peculiar peaks, bizarre rocks, secluded caves, beautiful waters, and ancient temples," it is celebrated as the "Fairy Mountain of Haidai" and is a famous Buddhist sanctuary and natural scenic area in southeastern Shandong. 1. Core Features of Wulian Mountain Natural Wonders ✅ Peculiar Peaks and Bizarre Rocks: Unique formations like "Tianzhu Peak," "Wanghai Peak," and "Wulao Peak" appear as if carved by divine craftsmanship. ✅ Water Curtain Cave: A natural karst cave with murmuring springs inside, offering a cool and comfortable retreat in summer. ✅ Azalea Blossom Sea (Spring Exclusive): Every April to May, wild azaleas blanket the mountains, earning the title "No. 1 Azalea Garden North of the Yangtze River." Buddhist Cultural Heritage Guangming Temple: Built during the Ming Dynasty, it is a significant Buddhist sanctuary in Shandong with thriving incense offerings. Giant Buddha Stone Carvings: Scattered across the mountain, such as the "Wulian Giant Buddha," exuding solemnity and grandeur. Eco-Leisure Experience The scenic area boasts high forest coverage and fresh air, making it a natural oxygen bar ideal for hiking and wellness. Jiuxian Mountain (Adjacent Scenic Area): Paired with Wulian Mountain as the "Twin Mountain Wonder," featuring canyons, waterfalls, and rafting. 2. Must-Visit Attractions Wulian Mountain Core Scenic Area Guangming Temple: A Ming Dynasty ancient temple at the heart of Buddhist culture. Wanghai Peak: Offers distant views of the Yellow Sea and the Rizhao coastline on clear days. Water Curtain Cave: A natural cave with echoing springs, perfect for summer escapes. Dabei Peak: Steep and rugged, ideal for observing sea of clouds and sunrise. Jiuxian Mountain (Combined Tour) Longtan Grand Canyon: A serene and deep landscape of streams and waterfalls. Sun Bin Academy: Legend says the Warring States strategist Sun Bin once lived here. Glass Walkway (Jiuxian Mountain): A thrilling high-altitude experience. 3. Seasonal Travel Guide Spring (April-May): Azaleas bloom, painting the mountains red—the best time for flower viewing. Summer (June-August): Lush greenery and cooling waterfalls and streams. Autumn (September-November): Forests turn vibrant with red and yellow leaves. Winter (December-February): Tranquil snowscapes for winter mountain enthusiasts. 4. Transportation Options Self-Driving: About 1 hour from Rizhao city center to Wulian Mountain. About 2 hours from Qingdao city center to Wulian Mountain. Public Transport: Take a bus from Rizhao city to Wulian County, then transfer to a scenic area shuttle. Take a high-speed train to Rizhao West Station, then taxi or rent a car (~1 hour). 5. In-Depth Experiences ✅ Hike to admire the majestic peaks and rocks. ✅ Visit Guangming Temple to immerse in Buddhist culture. ✅ Enjoy azaleas in spring and red leaves in autumn. ✅ Combine with Jiuxian Mountain for canyon rafting (summer). ✅ Savor local delicacies like wild herbs and mountain goat. 6. Tickets & Opening Hours Wulian Mountain Ticket: ~¥65 (peak season), ~¥40 (off-season). Jiuxian Mountain Ticket: ~¥78 (includes glass walkway). Opening Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM (adjusted slightly in peak season). Summary Wulian Mountain blends natural wonders, Buddhist culture, and eco-leisure, appealing to hikers, photographers, and those seeking Zen-inspired travel. For a combined tour with Jiuxian Mountain, plan a 1-2 day itinerary. For detailed guides on lodging and route optimization, feel free to inquire! Rizhao · Shandong

This summer, you must visit Rizhao at least once🌊 With its crystal-clear blue sea, golden sandy beaches, and authentic seafood feasts, you can have an amazing time in just two days and one night! 🚩Itinerary Day1: 📍Wanpingkou Scenic Area (Haiqu East Road, Donggang District): Rizhao's signature attraction, Gate 3 has numerous Instagram-worthy spots. Light-colored dresses are recommended for great photos. The fine sand is perfect for kids to dig and play in. 📍Dongyi Ancient Town (Bihai Road, Donggang District): A food street with antique-style architecture. Must-tries include Sea Sand Noodles (¥16/bowl) and Grilled Mackerel (¥10/skewer). The lanterns at night create a magical atmosphere. 📍Rizhao Ocean Park (185 Bihai Road, Donggang District): A must-visit for families! Mermaid shows at 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM—arrive early for good seats. 📍Seaside Forest Park (Beihai Road, Donggang District): Seamless transition from metasequoia forests to beaches. Rent bicycles (¥30/hour for tandem) to explore. Day2: 📍Lighthouse Scenic Area (Huanghai First Road, Donggang District): Perfect spot for sunrise! The rocky area offers great photo ops. 📍Third Bathing Beach: Less crowded with clearer water. Surfboard rentals at ¥50/hour. 📍Renjiatai Rocky Park: Prime spot for tide-pooling! Check tide schedules in advance to catch small crabs and shells. 📍Chocolate Seafood Restaurant (Haibin Second Road, Donggang District): A local favorite for seafood. Must-order: steamed seafood pot and mackerel dumplings. 🍜Food Recommendations: ✔University Town Night Market: Oyster omelet at ¥15/serving—super fresh and sweet. ✔Qianwangyuan Seafood Restaurant: Live mantis shrimp cooked with salt and pepper. ✔Chuangeyu Dumplings: Signature cuttlefish dumplings that burst with juice in every bite. 💡Practical Tips: 1. Strong UV at the beach! Bring high-SPF sunscreen + straw hat. 2. Taxis are cheap, but try the coastal bus line (¥1 for the whole route). 3. For empty beach shots, arrive before 7 AM. 4. Buy seafood at Shijiu Market—remember to bargain and check the weight.

Rizhao has become a popular family travel destination thanks to its unique natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. Itinerary Planning - 3-Day Family Leisure Trip - Day 1: Arrive in Rizhao in the morning and head to Wanpingkou Scenic Area, where kids can dig in the sand and build castles on the beach, or experience the thrilling glass water slide. In the afternoon, visit Rizhao Ocean Park to see marine life and enjoy shows like the Silver Storm, underwater ballet, and dolphin performances. - Day 2: Start the day early at Lighthouse Square to watch the sunrise, then visit the International Sailing Center for a sailing adventure. In the afternoon, explore the Coastal Forest Park, featuring attractions like the metasequoia forest, elk park, and seaside Ferris wheel. - Day 3: Spend the morning tide-pooling at Renjiatai Reef Park, and in the afternoon, visit Rizhao Science and Technology Museum for interactive exhibits that spark kids' curiosity about science. - 5-Day Fun-Filled Adventure - Day 1: Visit Yaowangcheng Provincial Archaeological Site Park in the morning for a simulated archaeological dig and immersive learning about Dongyi culture. In the afternoon, explore Egret Bay Town, including the Water Art Museum and the Jimmy Train Park. - Day 2: Head to Buzz Park in the morning to learn about bee culture and try beekeeping. In the afternoon, visit Tiantai Mountain·Guiyun Farm to discover crops, pick seasonal fruits, and enjoy activities like bucket fishing and water gun battles. - Day 3: Return to Wanpingkou Scenic Area in the morning for fun at the Children's Sports Park. In the afternoon, stroll through Dongyi Town to sample local delicacies. - Day 4: Go tide-pooling at Liujiawan Tide-Pooling Park in the morning, and in the afternoon, visit the Tide-Pooling Art Center to try crafting activities like painting farmer-style fans and making sand bottle art. - Day 5: Explore Rizhao Museum in the morning to learn about the city's history and culture. In the afternoon, let kids play and learn at Tom Cat Family Park. Food Recommendations - Seafood: Rizhao is rich in seafood. Don’t miss dishes like sea sand noodles, pan-fried mackerel pancakes, and grilled squid. - Lamb Soup: Rizhao’s lamb soup is flavorful and nutritious, a local specialty. - Rizhao Pancakes: Crispy and fragrant, these traditional flatbreads are a must-try. Accommodation Tips - Beachside B&Bs: For a splurge, stay at a beachfront B&B like Yian Guanhai near the Third Bathing Beach, where you can step right onto the sand and use provided tide-pooling tools. - Downtown Hotels: For convenience and food options, stay near MixC, such as Rizhao Ocean Aesthetics Hotel, which offers great value and easy access. - Family Resorts: For a premium experience, choose Oriental Color City·Color Outlets Hotel Cluster, featuring high-end family resorts with kids' play areas, reading rooms, and more. Important Notes - Sun Protection: The coastal sun is strong. Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen throughout the day, and have kids wear hats, sunglasses, and UV-protective clothing. - Tide-Pooling Safety: Wear non-slip shoes, avoid deep-water reefs, check tide schedules, and leave before high tide.

If you're visiting Rizhao from July to August, quickly take note—photos taken at different times look different, so don't ask why your experience looks different from others'! ☀ Morning visit ✅ Lighthouse Square: The sunrise is quite beautiful. At low tide, you can see the heart-shaped lake, which is a limited-time sight. ✅ Forest Park: You can check out the sand sculptures by the beach and feel the waves of Rizhao. If interested, you can also spend some time at the Elk Park. ✅ Taigong Island Oyster Park: A great free spot for beachcombing, where you can collect lots of seafood. 💖 Mid-afternoon visit ✅ Wanpingkou: For photo ops and check-ins, choose Gate 3. Popular spots like the Stone of Sea Vows and the Mirror of the Sky are all here. ✅ Sunshine Coast: Features the LOVE tree stump and angel wings—perfect for photos~ ✅ Daqianggou: The bridge arch is especially beautiful for photos, and it looks great at dusk. 🌇 Evening visit ✅ Sailing Regatta Base: After 8 PM, find a spot where big ships dock to increase your chances of seeing the blue tears. ✅ Lagoon: The lagoon is like a mirror surface, great for check-ins and photos. You can often see couples taking wedding photos here. Must-try food 🍝🍝🍝 ✔ Meimei Mixed Rice Noodles (especially flavorful rice noodles) ✔ Chocolate Fisherman’s (a must-try seafood restaurant in Rizhao) ✔ Shancheng Noodles (sticky noodles) ✔ Kuanpozi Seafood Potstickers (crispy seafood potstickers)

If you plan to embark on a budget-friendly yet rich experience trip in 2025, these 12 cities will be your ideal choices. They not only have profound cultural heritage and unique natural scenery, but more importantly, eating, accommodation, transportation, and sightseeing are all highly cost-effective, especially suitable for "deep experience" budget travelers. I have categorized them according to city characteristics to help you choose based on your preferences: --- 🏯 **1. Cities of Slow Life Blending Historical Culture and Local Atmosphere** 1. **Chongqing** - **Highlights**: Magical 8D mountain city, stunning night views, many free check-in spots - **Budget Travel Experience**: Hongya Cave night view (free exterior), Liziba monorail passing through a building, 2 RMB Crown escalator; 6 RMB noodles, 15 RMB hotpot and skewers - **Accommodation**: Hostels near Jiefangbei, beds 30–50 RMB/night - **Estimated Budget**: About 510 RMB for 5 days 2. **Xi’an** - **Highlights**: Ancient capital of thirteen dynasties, carb-rich food paradise - **Budget Travel Experience**: Walking along the city wall base (outer area free), Shaanxi History Museum (free with reservation); 5 RMB roujiamo (meat sandwich), 10 RMB Hanfu photo shoot - **Accommodation**: Hostels near Bell Tower, 40–60 RMB/night - **Estimated Budget**: About 605 RMB for 5 days 3. **Chengdu** - **Highlights**: Leisure of the "Land of Abundance" and panda charm - **Budget Travel Experience**: Free visits to Jinli and Kuanzhai Alley; tea at People’s Park, 20 RMB per person at JianShe Road snack street to eat until full - **Accommodation**: Hostels near Chunxi Road, 40–70 RMB/night - **Estimated Budget**: About 800 RMB for 3 days 4. **Nanjing** - **Highlights**: Land of Six Dynasties, dense free cultural sites - **Budget Travel Experience**: Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Nanjing Museum (free); 10 RMB duck blood vermicelli soup per bowl, affordable salted duck - **Transportation**: Bus and metro cover main attractions --- 🏞️ **2. Healing Small Cities with Mountain and Water Scenery and Low Prices** 5. **Guiyang** - **Highlights**: Karst landscapes and sour-spicy cuisine - **Budget Travel Experience**: Free hiking at Qianling Park, Huangguoshu Waterfall (free viewing spots nearby); 6 RMB luosifen (snail noodles), zhe’er gen snacks - **Accommodation**: Hostels 40 RMB/night - **Estimated Budget**: About 645 RMB for 5 days 6. **Pu’er (Yunnan)** - **Highlights**: Land of tea and coffee, quieter than Dali - **Budget Travel Experience**: 30 RMB tea garden tour with tea-making lessons and coffee exchange; stilt house homestay with window views of sea of clouds - **Tip**: Suitable for travelers who love ecological and cultural depth 7. **Jingxi (Guangxi)** - **Highlights**: Alternative to Guilin, wild waterfalls and countryside - **Budget Travel Experience**: Free water play at Sandieling Waterfall, boat house homestay at Quyang Lake to watch morning mist; 10 RMB glutinous rice wine 8. **Jingdezhen** - **Highlights**: Millennium porcelain capital, a haven for artsy youth - **Budget Travel Experience**: Free China Ceramics Museum, find small porcelain items for 5 RMB at ceramic markets; watch craftsmen making porcelain --- 🌊 **3. Coastal Charm and High Cost-Performance Vacation Spots** 9. **Xiapu (Fujian)** - **Highlights**: Mudflat light and shadow photography paradise - **Budget Travel Experience**: Free mudflat sunrise and sunset, 200 RMB for fishing boat tour to islands; Dongbi Village fishing village sunset 10. **Rizhao (Shandong)** - **Highlights**: "China’s cleanest small city," beaches better than Qingdao - **Budget Travel Experience**: Free bathing beach at Wanpingkou, coastal forest park; seafood buffet about 50 RMB per person 11. **Maoming (Guangdong)** - **Highlights**: Off-the-beaten-path islands and original fishing villages - **Budget Travel Experience**: China’s First Beach free, hiking at Yanjingling; night market oysters 10 RMB per dozen - **Transportation**: Direct hard seat train from Changsha 135.5 RMB 12. **Beihai (Guangxi)** - **Highlights**: Alternative to Weizhou Island, Silver Beach white waves - **Budget Travel Experience**: Free Qiaogang Beach, Wucaitan Beach on Weizhou Island (free at low tide); seafood processing fee 10 RMB per serving - **Transportation**: High-speed train Changsha-Beihai 409.5 RMB --- 💰 4. Budget Planning Reference (5 days 4 nights) | **City** | **Accommodation** | **Meals** | **Tickets/Experiences** | **Total** | |----------------|----------------|----------|-----------------------|-----------| | Chongqing | 160 RMB | 150 RMB | 50 RMB | 360 RMB | | Xi’an | 200 RMB | 125 RMB | 80 RMB | 405 RMB | | Guiyang | 160 RMB | 125 RMB | 60 RMB | 345 RMB | | Small cities like Jingxi/Xiapu | 120–200 RMB | 100–150 RMB | 50–100 RMB | 300–450 RMB | --- ✨ **Budget Travel Tips** - **Save on transportation**: Choose overnight hard seat trains (e.g., Chongqing–Xi’an hard seat 112 RMB, saves one night accommodation); use shared e-bikes or buses in cities (Guiyang bus 1 RMB per ride). - **Accommodation tips**: Choose hostels rated 4.8+ (safe and easy to find companions); stay at temples (e.g., Emei Mountain 50 RMB/night including vegetarian meals). - **Food strategy**: Eat breakfast at local markets (Guiyang silk rolls 10 RMB fills you up); night markets near universities (Xi’an Jiaotong University East New Street about 20 RMB per person). In 2025, instead of squeezing into expensive popular attractions, step into these small cities and feel the true meaning of "slow travel"—less money ≠ less experience, but turning every penny into a story worth cherishing 🌟.

Rizhao!! Steps from the beach!! Family-friendly slide room for four!! Unbelievably good value!! 🌈Prime location, very close to the Third Bathing Beach🏖 and Taigong Island Oyster Park🌊, with convenient parking🚗. 🌈Clean environment, fully equipped with daily necessities, featuring brand-new and modern smart facilities💡 that are super user-friendly. 🌈Spacious and bright rooms with cartoon-themed decor, plus a slide and toys that kept the kids entertained for hours! 🌈The host was incredibly warm and hospitable🍀, providing free beachcombing tools for the little ones🐚, and even gave us local shrimp cakes🍤 as a farewell gift – such a thoughtful touch! 🌈Homestay: Rizhao Boxin Hotel 🌈Address: No. 111, F1 Area, Haijitan West, Wolongshan Street, Donggang District, Rizhao, Shandong

Visited Rizhao 6 times, here are my super practical tips... I've been to Rizhao multiple times, and each visit leaves me longing to return. 🦀 The seafood is incredibly fresh and delicious, and the scenery is breathtaking. Riding an electric scooter 🛵 along the coast at dusk is pure bliss! If you're planning a trip in July or August, check out my tips below to save time and 💰 budget. 1️⃣ During peak season, always book your accommodation in advance. The best-value 🛁 rooms get snapped up quickly, and prices are usually lower than last-minute bookings. If budget isn't an issue, opt for a 🌊 sea-view room near 📍 Wanpingkou. For more affordable options, consider staying near Wanxianghui. 2️⃣ Choose high-speed rail over driving if possible. With heavy traffic 🚗, finding parking can be a hassle. Taxis are convenient for getting around the city, with fares starting at just 7-8 yuan, and 🚎 buses cost only 1 yuan, reaching most attractions. 3️⃣ Most attractions are free, but be cautious with souvenirs like shells 🐚 and pearl jewelry sold nearby. Check the value for money ✨ and don't hesitate to bargain. Avoid overpriced items. 4️⃣ For tide-pooling, check the tide schedule in advance and bring tools. Free spots like 📍 Taigong Island and 📍 Renjiatai can be crowded with slim pickings. Families with kids should consider paid areas like 📍 Wanbao for safety. 5️⃣ Different times offer unique experiences at each site. For example, 📍 Lighthouse Square is stunning at sunrise, but if you can't wake up early, the nighttime lighting 🌌 creates a magical atmosphere. 📍 Shanhaitian Sunshine Coast boasts white, Instagram-worthy buildings by day and a romantic sunset 🌅 by evening. 6️⃣ Other tips: Among 📍 Wanpingkou's gates, Gate 3 is more worthwhile than Gate 2, which beats Gate 1—plan accordingly. Visiting 📍 Taohua Island requires a boat fee. 📍 Seaside Forest Park is farther away; take a taxi and spend an afternoon exploring its vast 🍃 greenery. 7️⃣ For food, avoid random street vendors for seafood. Opt for chains like 📍 Chocolate Fisherman for 🍤 consistent quality, great taste, and hygiene. Try local snacks like 📍 Kuanpozi Seafood Potstickers and Wood-fired Tofu Pancakes 🫔 for something unique. 8️⃣ Lastly, Rizhao's coastal UV rays are strong, so don't forget your ☂️ sun protection! #WhereToEatSeafoodInRizhao #RizhaoSeafood #RizhaoDayTrip #RizhaoTravelGuide #RizhaoTravelTips #RizhaoGuide #RizhaoTidePooling #TidePoolingInRizhao #RizhaoTwoDayTrip

After playing in Rizhao, I realized not every attraction is worth visiting or suitable for long stays; two days is just right! Here’s a detailed, crowd-avoiding guide for those planning to visit—just go for it with your eyes closed~ . 📸 A must for photo lovers! 📍 Wanpingkou Gate 3 Take photos of the "Orange Sea + pure white backdrop" at 4 PM—absolutely stunning! The popular swing and seaside bus line up for 10 minutes. Wearing a light-colored long dress and shooting from behind gives off that Korean drama heroine vibe! Capture the sky reflection in the tide pools among the rocks—no filter needed. Shoot silhouettes inside the glass house facing outward for a full atmospheric effect, and there are hardly any people. . 📍 Peach Blossom Island Instagram-style Beach Spend 30 yuan on a speedboat surfing ride! Wear sunglasses to protect from splashes and capture dynamic shots of your hair flying. After getting off, head straight to the white coffee house with Greek-style arches and a blue sea background—super stylish and looks amazing in photos. . 📍 Lighthouse Square Don’t miss the timing! Arrive about half an hour early to secure a spot in the rocky area. Sunrise is around 4:50 AM, so you need to be there before 4:30 AM. Watch the sky change from deep blue to pink and gold, with the lighthouse silhouette against the dawn—so beautiful it leaves you speechless! Try to stay nearby; otherwise, you won’t make it in time. . 🦀 Tide Pooling 📍 Renjiatai Reef Park Bring a small bucket, shovel, and salt shaker (great for digging razor clams! Renting a set costs 15 yuan). After the tide recedes, flip over the black rocks to find many small crabs underneath! Wear gloves to avoid scratches. Last time, I collected half a bucket of cat’s eye snails in an hour—totally worth it! . 🦞 Must-try food list 📌 Chocolate Fisherman’s House: Minced mackerel mixed with chives, thin skin and big filling that bursts with juice when bitten! Vinegar + garlic paste is the soul! Portions are quite large—one plate is perfect for two people! Garlic scallops and steamed pine needle crab are also great, both very plump and meaty. 📌 Kuanpozi Seafood Potstickers: Seafood potstickers have a crispy bottom; the signature big shrimp one contains a whole large shrimp, all for under 20 yuan—perfect for breakfast. 📌 Mixed Fish Potstickers A stew of small yellow croaker, blackhead fish, and pomfret, with cornmeal pancakes stuck to the pot’s edge. The bottom half of the pancake soaks up the fish broth, while the top half is crispy—bite a piece of fish and pancake together for a delicious combo. 📌 Fish Soup Wontons The broth is milky white from fish bones, and the filling is especially tender. Each wonton is plump and round. Try the “Family Fortune” variety with all kinds of fillings. . 💡 Tested Money-saving Tips 1. Transportation: Rent an electric scooter in the city for 50 yuan a day. Riding along the coastal road lets you stop and take photos anytime! Cheaper and more flexible than taxis. 2. Accommodation: Wanpingkou Seaview Hotel offers a great experience but is a bit pricey... Huijin Fisherman’s Home is more cost-effective and not far from the sea. 3. Buying seafood: Bargain at Shijiu Market! Mantis shrimp 15 yuan/jin, swimming crab 30 yuan each, processing fee 10 yuan per dish at the entrance. . #RizhaoTravelGuide #RizhaoTips #RizhaoTidePooling #WhereToEatSeafoodInRizhao #LocalSeafoodRecommendationsInRizhao #WeekendGetaway #RizhaoFoodAndFun #Rizhao #TravelGuide #SelfDriveTour #Travel #NearbyTrips #RizhaoTidePoolingExperience #TidePoolingInRizhao #PopularCheckInSpots #ILoveSeafood #CoupleDate #FishingTrip #SeafoodOrigin

Seriously recommend friends planning to visit Rizhao soon to spend some time preparing—it saves time⏰, effort, and money! Just came back from Rizhao and I'm so glad I did my homework—only spent 💰700+ over two days. Sharing my experience: 🏨 Accommodation: Stayed near MixC, found a hotel around ¥200 after careful selection. Great reviews and very accurate—🛁 room was small but super clean. 🚗 Transportation: Checked all desired attractions and routes in advance. Most popular spots are accessible by 🚌 bus (only ¥1 per ride)—cheap and convenient! Also inquired about 🛵 e-bike rentals (~¥50/day), good option for those with higher budget. 🌈 Attractions: All visited spots were free but incredibly scenic, with tons of Instagrammable🔥 spots. Best part? They're all along the coastline💦—just follow the route without backtracking! 1⃣ Lighthouse Square: Sunrise is healing🌅, and at low tide you’ll see heart-shaped rock formations. 2⃣ Wanpingkou Scenic Area: Photo lovers must visit—Gates 1-3 are all photogenic📸, especially Gate 3 with its aesthetic props (no filter needed!). 3⃣ Taigong Island Oyster Park: Popular even among locals for tide-pooling—mainly 🪸 starfish and small crabs🦀 (check tide tables and bring tools!). 4⃣ Shanhaitian Sunshine Coast: Perfect for couples👩‍❤‍👨—minimalist yet romantic architecture plus stunning sunsets. 5⃣ National Forest Park: Further away (need taxi), but combines ocean🌊 and forest vibes. Extra paid activities: feeding elk, Ferris wheel🎡, etc. 🍤 Food: 📍 Chocolate Fisherman: Affordable seafood chain (no short-weighting!), 🦐 super fresh and tasty. 📍 Kuanpozi Seafood Potstickers: Ideal for breakfast/lunch—thin wrappers, generous fillings. Their wood-fired tofu pancake🫔 is unique! 📍 Baimi Baigao: Spotless shop with freshly made pastries🥧—steamed rice cakes are fragrant and hefty. 📍 Hanshiwei·Little Wooden House: Authentic Korean flavors—🍗 crispy spicy wings are addictive, chewy tteokbokki hits the spot. #WhereToEatSeafoodInRizhao #RizhaoSeafood #RizhaoDayTrip #RizhaoTravelGuide #RizhaoItinerary #RizhaoTips #RizhaoTidePooling #TidePoolingInRizhao #Rizhao2DayTrip

▪️Rizhao Travel Checklist◾️ ✔️01 Documents 🔴ID card: For hotel check-in and high-speed rail 🔴Driver's license: Essential for self-driving 🔴Student ID: Discounts on some tickets 🔴Teacher's certificate: Discounts on tickets ✔️02 Clothing 🟡Sun protection: Sun-protective clothing, sun hat 🟡Swimming: Swimsuit, swimming cap 🟡Underwear: Disposable underwear 🟡Shoes: Flip-flops + Crocs (must-have for the beach) ✔️03 Electronics 🔵Phone + charger 🔵Camera + charger + SD card 🔵Power bank + charging cable 🔵Selfie stick/tripod ✔️04 Emergency items 🟠Cold medicine: Xiao Chai Hu 🟠Stomach medicine: Montmorillonite powder 🟠First aid: Band-aids, sanitary pads 🟠Mosquito repellent: Spray ✔️05 Skincare 🟡Travel set (basic toner and lotion) 🟡Facial cleanser · Serum/eye cream 🟡Sunscreen + spray (SPF 50+) 🟡Hydrating spray · Moisturizing mask 🟡Shampoo and conditioner set · Body lotion ✔️06 Daily essentials 🔶Umbrella, sunglasses 🔶Masks, trash bags 🔶Contact lenses + solution 🔶Dental floss, comb 🔶Tissues, wet wipes 🔶Snacks, candies ▪️Popular Attractions in Rizhao◾️ 🏮Lighthouse Square: Best visited in the early morning or evening to watch the sunrise and sunset, and enjoy the romantic orange sea~ Near Lighthouse Square is the Heart-shaped Sea, visible during low tide~ 🎏Wanpingkou Scenic Area: There are five gates in total. If you have enough time to stay in Rizhao for several days, you can visit them all, as each gate has its own unique features. If time is limited, Gate 3 is recommended~ 🏞Sunshine Coast: Classic photo spots—love tree branches, coconut trees, and many of Rizhao's landmark photo spots are here~ ▪️Rizhao Food Guide◾️ 📍Seafood: Chocolate Fisherman Their specialty is freshly killed live fish, and the seafood is very fresh. If you prefer original flavors, try the seafood steam pot. For something more flavorful, go for the sea intestine rice~ 📍Local dishes: Kuanpozi - Seafood Potstickers Seafood potstickers are a specialty of Rizhao. Their potstickers are filled with large chunks of seafood! One bite and your mouth will be full of delicious juices! Just thinking about it makes your mouth water! 📍Sichuan cuisine: Shuwai Sichuan Restaurant If you're staying in Rizhao for several days and want a break from seafood, try the local Sichuan cuisine. Their mouthwatering chicken is delicious~

If you're preparing to visit Rizhao in July, some small details are easy to overlook the first time. ⭐️Based on my experience of visiting six or seven times, here's a summary for everyone. It will save you time and effort, and also save quite a bit of 💰 budget. 🏨 About hotels: If you have a bigger budget, you can directly book near Wanpingkou. The sea view rooms 🌊 are really comfortable, and the scenery is great; if your budget is limited, consider staying near Wanxianghui 📍, where there are many places to eat and drink, very convenient for everything, and you can find hotels at various price points. Just be sure to check the reviews carefully. 🚗 About transportation: It's best to take the high-speed train. It's peak season now, and driving yourself can easily lead to traffic jams, plus parking is a hassle. 🚎 You can take the bus or taxi, or rent an electric bike to ride along the coastline, 🍀 which is quite pleasant. 🏖️ About attractions: 👉 If you want to watch the sunrise, go to Lighthouse Square; 🌅 the view is excellent, and afterwards you can check out the Heart Sea. 👉 For photo ops and check-ins, you can visit Wanpingkou and Shanhaitian Sunshine Coast 📍, both have many popular spots. Don't miss Gate 3 at Wanpingkou, 👍 the café at Gate 2; also at Shanhaitian, there are the big wings, Jay Chou's "Sunny Day" wall, and the love tree branch. If it's a sunny day, 🌥️ the sky is especially blue, and you won't need any filters for your photos. 👉 If you want to go tide pooling, free spots include Taigong Island Oyster Park 📍, Renjiatai Reef Park 📍, and Feijiazhuang 📍. Remember to prepare your tools in advance, buying them on the spot can be a bit expensive. Also, check the tide schedule beforehand; generally, one to two hours before and after low tide is the best time. 👉 For some water activities, you can go to the Sailing Regatta Base 📍. Personally, I think the cruise out to sea offers the best value, about a thirty-minute trip. 👉 If you want to picnic or camp, you can go to the National Forest Park 📍. The air is super fresh, the large Metasequoia forest 🌳 is very cool, and the beach there is soft, perfect for building sandcastles with kids. ✅ About food: 🔸 For seafood, you still need to go to some more reputable places, like the chain Chocolate Fisherman 💯, where the dishes are more consistent and the service is better, so you won't get shortchanged. 🔸 For snacks, try the seafood potstickers at Kuanpozi's and the wood-fired tofu pancakes 🫔, which are quite special, tasty, and affordable. 🔸 For hotpot, I found Xiaoyouji Beef Hotpot and 🌶️ Chongqing Kidney Hotpot to be quite good, both taste great. #WhereToEatSeafoodInRizhao #RizhaoSeafood #RizhaoOneDayTour #RizhaoTravelGuide #RizhaoTravelTips #RizhaoGuide #RizhaoTidePooling #ExperienceTidePoolingInRizhao #RizhaoTwoDayTour

The villa boasts a prime location, just steps away from the Sunshine Coast Beach. Wake up naturally to the sound of waves in the morning, and within a ten-minute walk, you can sink your toes into the soft sand and embrace the first sea breeze of the day. At dusk, take a leisurely stroll back to the villa from the beach, enjoying the stunning view of the sea painted orange-red by the sunset. Popular attractions like Wanpingkou and Dongyi Town are also within easy reach, just a 10-minute drive away, making your travel plans both relaxed and flexible. Yishe Villa (Shanhaitian Sunshine Coast Branch)

Basic Information 🎫 Tickets: Free admission starting from 2023, internal entertainment activities charge separately. 👉 Opening Hours: Summer (April-October) 07:30-20:30; Winter (November-March) 08:00-17:30. 👉 Transportation: Only Bus Tour Line 1 from the city center; self-driving 🚗 or taxi 🚕 recommended. Parking spaces are limited during peak season, parking fee 10-20 RMB/day. Activities 👀✨ Forest Scenery: The largest artificial Metasequoia forest in East China, with fiery red leaves in autumn (late October to November); coastal black pine forest with fresh pine scent, wooden boardwalks suitable for strolling or cycling. 🥳 Seaside Experience: 7 km of golden sandy beach with fine sand and clear water, free swimming area available; sunrise can be viewed on the east side of the beach, sunset by the pine forest on the west side; during low tide, you can catch clams and pick small crabs. 😇 Special Activities: Camping allowed on the beach or forest clearings, summer nights feature stargazing activities; also includes a forest Ferris wheel, seaside swings, rainbow road, and other popular photo spots. Park Transportation 🚡 Sightseeing Car: Electric sightseeing cars charge 80-120 RMB, stop on request, can get on and off at various attractions. 🚲 Bicycles: Tandem or four-person bicycles available for rent, 30-50 RMB/hour, perfect for cruising through the shaded paths and enjoying the natural oxygen bar. Dining and Accommodation 🥰 Dining: There are some restaurants and convenience stores inside the park, or you can bring your own water and snacks; outside the park, Wujiatai Village offers many fishermen’s inns serving fresh seafood. 🤗🎉 Accommodation: Inside the park, there is Linhai Holiday Hotel and others with good environment but higher prices; outside the park, Wujiatai Village fishermen’s inns offer better value for money.