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At Shendiaoshan Wildlife Reserve, visitors can hike through the lush forest trails, observe native wildlife, and enjoy the stunning landscapes. The reserve is home to various species of birds, mammals, and plants, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The area also offers eco-tourism experiences, allowing for peaceful interactions with nature.
The Xixiakou Shendiaoshan Wildlife Nature Reserve is located northeast of Xixiakou Village, Chengshan Town, Rongcheng City, Weihai City, Shandong Province. It stands tall by the sea, nestled against steep hills. Legend has it that during his eastern tour of Chengshan, Emperor Qin Shihuang shot an eagle with his bow and arrow here, hence the name Shendiaoshan. With a total investment exceeding 100 million yuan, the reserve covers 3,800 mu and features a range of habitats, including a herbivore area, a marine area, an African animal area, a bear park, a bird park, a raptor park, an orangutan park, a leopard and wolf mountain, a monkey mountain, a golden monkey enclosure, and a panda enclosure.
As soon as you enter the park, you can see the stone walls of Shendiao Mountain carved with hundreds of animal images. On the top of the mountain there is a statue commemorating Qin Shihuang's shooting of the eagle here, hence the name Shendiao Mountain.
It has a temperate continental semi-humid monsoon climate with distinct four seasons, moderate cold and hot seasons, synchronized light and temperature, and simultaneous rain and heat. Spring is dry and windy, summer is hot and rainy, autumn is sunny and refreshing, and winter is cold and snowy.
Recommended one-day tour
150 yuan/person
07:30-18:00
Shendiaoshan Wildlife Reserve was established to protect the region's diverse ecosystems and wildlife, including rare species native to Shandong. The reserve plays a significant role in wildlife conservation and serves as a natural habitat for various endangered species, making it a crucial site for biodiversity protection.
Shendiaoshan Wildlife Reserve is located in Weihai, Shandong Province. The reserve is accessible by taxi or private car from Weihai city. Public transportation options are limited, so hiring a taxi or using a car rental service is recommended for ease of access. Walking around the reserve once inside is the best way to explore its trails.
The reserve is generally open from 8 AM to 5 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild, and wildlife is more active. Early mornings offer the chance to see more animals and enjoy the tranquility of the reserve.
The entrance fee is approximately 80 RMB for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and in some cases, advance booking may be available online, especially during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary but is recommended during the peak tourist seasons (especially in summer and around public holidays). Booking 1-2 days in advance should suffice if visiting during busy times.
To fully explore the Shendiaoshan Wildlife Reserve, plan for 3-4 hours, depending on how extensively you wish to hike and explore the different trails. If you're interested in birdwatching or photography, you may want to allocate more time.
The must-see highlights include the forest trails, wildlife observation points, and the panoramic viewpoints offering a bird’s-eye view of the reserve's diverse landscapes. The waterfall area and the wildlife habitats for native species are also key attractions.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Some basic information may be provided in English by the guides, but most tours are conducted in Chinese. Audio guides are not typically available, but the park staff can provide assistance in understanding the wildlife and ecosystems.
The best viewpoints are at the higher points along the hiking trails, where you can capture sweeping views of the forest, rivers, and wildlife. The waterfall area also offers a stunning backdrop for photos, especially during the rainy season when the water flow is more dramatic.
Start at the main entrance and follow the marked trails. Begin with the lower trail for a gentle introduction to the flora and fauna, then move to the more challenging trails for panoramic views and wildlife spotting. If you have limited time, focus on the main wildlife observation points and the waterfall area.
Night visits are generally not available, as the reserve is focused on daytime wildlife observation. However, during certain seasons, the park may offer special nature walks or guided tours, so it's worth checking ahead of time if you're visiting during special events.
The reserve can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the summer. The least crowded times are typically early mornings on weekdays or during the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn).
The reserve has basic facilities such as toilets, water stations, and rest areas along the trails. There are small kiosks selling snacks and drinks, but there are no major food or shopping facilities inside the reserve, so it's recommended to bring your own water and food.
While the reserve is generally accessible for children and elderly visitors, some trails can be steep or rugged, making it challenging for visitors with mobility issues. It’s advisable to check the trail difficulty levels beforehand if you have concerns about accessibility.
Cash is still commonly used, though mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Some smaller shops or kiosks may still require cash, so it's advisable to carry both options.
Inside the reserve, there are small food stalls offering light snacks and drinks. For more dining options, visitors can head to Weihai city, which has a wide selection of restaurants offering local seafood, Chinese dishes, and international cuisine.
Vegetarian food options are available, especially in Weihai city, but options inside the reserve are limited. Halal food is available in certain restaurants in the city but is not commonly found within the reserve itself.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Weihai city, which is about a 30-minute drive from the reserve. These range from budget accommodations to more luxurious options. Some hotels also offer shuttle services to the reserve.
Nearby attractions include the Weihai International Bathing Beach, the Weihai Marine Park, and the Liugong Island, which is famous for its historical sites and scenic views. These can be easily combined with a visit to the wildlife reserve in a day trip.
There are souvenir shops near the entrance of the reserve selling local handicrafts, nature-themed products, and wildlife memorabilia. The typical souvenirs include handmade wooden items, traditional clothing, and nature-inspired crafts.
After visiting the reserve, taxis and private cars are the best options for continuing the trip, especially if you're heading to Weihai city or nearby attractions. Public buses are available but may be less convenient for traveling to distant locations.
