Day 1 Check in to designated hotel in Jinan All day gathering day
All day
Travelers from all over the world can fly or train to Jinan and check into your designated hotel. If you have more time, you can freely explore the beauty of the Spring City. You can visit Spring City Square to experience the shimmering musical fountains, visit the Shandong Provincial Museum to learn about the history we are about to delve into, and even enjoy a meal to quickly immerse yourself in the city.
The world-famous Baotu Spring and the "Summer Rain Lotus" in Daming Lake will be left for us to experience together tomorrow. This old city, which is a gathering place of mountains, springs, rivers and lakes, can still be found in the richness described by Mr. Lao She.
During your free time, please be careful and stay safe! In the evening, your team leader will confirm the next day's itinerary and schedule with you.
Day 2 Baotu Spring → Daming Lake → Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City → Zibo
·morning
After breakfast at the hotel at 8:00, we will depart for Baotu Spring (5A), one of the three major scenic spots in Jinan, and recall the travel notes written by Lao She in our textbooks during our school days.
Standing on the bridge outside the West Gate, you'll see a stream of fresh, shallow water flowing from south to north. This is the water from Baotu Spring. Without this spring, Jinan would lose half its beauty.
Strolling along the edge of the spring, as the explanation deepens, you will not miss any of the beautiful sights, such as Shangzhi Academy, Jinxian Spring, Li Qingzhao Memorial Hall, Shuyu Spring, and Wanzhu Garden.
Depart for Daming Lake at 10:00. “Lotus flowers on four sides, willows on three sides, one city with mountains and half of the city with lakes” is the best description of its scenery.
"Misty Rain over Quehua Lake", "Sunset Glow over Huibo Lake", "Boating on Minghu Lake" and "Autumn Wind over Lixia Lake". Daming Lake, China's first spring water lake, is home to four major landscapes. Every step brings a different scene, and its charm is evident throughout the year. We will take a boat trip on the river, walk through the lake, and experience the poetic and picturesque scenery of Jinan firsthand.
In addition to enjoying the scenery and strolling around, reading "Winter in Jinan" engraved on the wall of the Lao She Memorial Hall by the lake is another kind of dialogue between time and space, evoking childhood memories.
Another way:
There are many small springs and characteristic buildings in the scenic area. If you have enough time, you can take a closer look at the buildings inside, especially the mythical beasts on the roofs, which are very photogenic.
Visit the Wangheting Teahouse by the spring, order a cup of spring-water tea, sit by the water, and quietly savor the sound of the water, gazing into the night until the evening tour ends. Enjoy a bite of Baotu Spring Cultural and Creative Ice Cream, enjoying the "double coolness" of the spring and the ice cream. You might even encounter a "fat koi" in the spring pool.
Explore a new nighttime spring tour experience: After entering the park at night, head straight to the "Three Streams" of Baotu Spring. Pause by the railing, listen to the gurgling waters, and experience the "rumble of waves shaking Daming Lake." Between 7:00 and 8:00 PM, board a boat from the Baotu Spring dock and head north for an immersive "boat cruise on the springs, a unique experience." Once the boat enters Daming Lake, enjoy the gentle breeze and the bright moon over the lotus flowers. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the "Seven Bridges" along the way, and take stunning photos.
·afternoon
The morning tour ends around 11:30, and we walk through the streets and alleys near Daming Lake, Qushuiting Street and Furong Street. The veins and tentacles of old Jinan are clearly visible, and you can freely choose to taste special snacks: Taishan millet pancakes, Furongji oil twists, Yang's sesame candy spring water tea, Jinan specialty old bread, Jinan sour dip, and old Jinan pork.
Special arrangements to taste authentic Shandong cuisine: milk soup cattail, spring water carp, spring water tofu, pancakes with green onions, etc., the taste of Shandong is everywhere (the above is only a partial recommendation, the actual dishes are subject to the final)
We gathered at around 13:30 and boarded the bus to arrive at Zibo's [Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City] (1.5-hour drive). This is the filming location of classic business war dramas "The Dye House" and "Dry Wharf". It is the birthplace of Shandong merchants, the origin of the Silk Road, and a place for folk performances. The architectural styles are very different, combining Chinese and Western cultures, with carved beams and painted buildings, and long stone alleys, like a slowly unfolding scroll. We slowly appreciate and tour it.
We especially recommend the unique Zhoucun Shaobing Museum, where you can learn about the history, production techniques, and cultural heritage of Zhoucun Shaobing. You can also observe the entire process of making a Shaobing, from dough to finished product, up close. You can even enjoy a freshly baked, fragrant Shaobing.
Another way:
Travel photography with Hanfu and flowers on your head: strolling through the old streets of Jinan, wearing Hanfu and flower decorations on your head, walking through the ancient alleys, any photo you take will be very good.
Check-in point 1: Qushuiting Street along the east and west sides of the spring
Check-in point 2: Next to the small bridge on Qushuiting Street
Check-in point 3: Qifengqiao Street "Door Frame"
Check-in point 4: Mottled wall in the alley
Check-in point 6: Baihuazhou
·night
Gather at the right time and depart for the hotel in downtown Zibo. In the evening, you can visit Badaju, check in Zibo barbecue, feel the "barbecue" craze, and feel the atmosphere of the world.
Zibo barbecue is known for its unique "small pancakes + small skewers + spring onions" cooking method. The combination of barbecue, spring onions, and pancakes, a Shandong-style dish, clearly reveals the unique characteristics of Zibo barbecue. Adding unique ways to enjoy the barbecue, such as dipping the pancakes in sauce, adds a touch of fun and novelty to the experience.
After a whole day of enjoying delicious food, you can rest peacefully.
Another way:
Night Tour of Haidai Tower: The Zhongshu Pavilion in Haidai Tower blends ancient charm and style. The night view here is like a brilliant dream, with the changing lights shining amidst the city's neon lights, and Haidai Tower is like a dazzling night pearl among all the lights.
Day 3: Fangci Town → World Kite Museum → Shihu Garden → Weifang
·morning
At 8:00, after breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for Fangci Town (1.5 hours’ drive). With the popularity of the TV series “Coming from South to North”, the national audience got to know the beautiful European-style Fangci Town for the first time.
There are a large number of German and Japanese buildings preserved here. The old city of Fangzi has basically maintained its original appearance in the 1980s. A large number of residential houses from the Republic of China period have also been preserved. This is a museum where time has stopped. While strolling here, you will miss the past.
·afternoon
11:30 a.m. Lunch will be arranged to taste Weifang delicacies: Weifang mustard chicken, stir-fried kidney, Chaotian pot, meat fire, etc. (the above are only some recommended dishes, the actual dishes are subject to the final)
Depart at 1:00 PM to experience the Weifang Kite Museum. Weifang is known as the birthplace of kites, earning it the nickname "Kite City" and "Kite Capital." Its kites boast a long history and exquisite craftsmanship. Follow the guide as he introduces kite samples from ancient China to the present day, as well as the history of kite development in various countries around the world. In addition to the tour, you'll also experience the joy of kite-making.
Depart at 3:00 PM to explore Shihu Garden, the private residence of Ding Shanbao, a wealthy man in Weixian during the Qing Dynasty. With its exquisite architecture and rich literary influences, it's known as the "Pearl of Eastern Shandong." Despite its small size, it boasts ample space, a compact yet uncrowded layout. Garden expert Chen Congzhou once praised it, saying, "Among the small gardens in the north, this one is the best, boasting the best water and rock formations." The garden is organized along three axes of ancient architecture: central, western, and eastern. The main building, Yanxiang Tower, dates back to the Ming Dynasty, and its walls are inlaid with over 90 authentic inscriptions by calligraphers and painters such as Zheng Banqiao and Jin Nong. The front of the garden, centered around a pond, features a quadrangular courtyard, making it a unique example of a small, exquisite garden in northern China, embodying the distinctive characteristics of Jiangnan gardens.
Another way:
Experience the XR digital experience space: Through the metaverse virtual reality technology, kite culture is combined with innovative digital display and interactive methods, breaking through the traditional static experience mode of display and exhibition, integrating more participation, interactivity and fun, and realizing the linkage between online and offline scenes, bringing tourists a multiple sense of experience and interaction.
·night
The tour concludes at 4:30 PM with transfer to the hotel. Free time is available. We recommend visiting the Siping Kite Factory's second branch on Kuiwenmen Street. The kites are a dazzling array of styles, including butterflies, eagles, goldfish, and pandas. Both the kites and their decorative accessories are exquisite and affordable, making them a great souvenir.
At night, you can go to the Taihua Business District, where there are many food streets and various night market snacks nearby, providing a one-stop shopping experience. While here, don't forget to take a look at the Kuiwen Gate, the east gate of Weicheng, under the night sky. This Ming Dynasty building, restored in 1988, has preserved the ancient charm of this area in the modern fashion.
Day 4 Weifang → Catholic Church → Zhanqiao → Beer Museum → Badaguan
·morning
At 8:00 AM, after breakfast at the hotel, we will arrive in Qingdao (a two-hour drive). We will visit the Pier (approximately 40 minutes) and stroll along the pier, a symbol of Qingdao known as "a long rainbow stretching across the water, a pavilion swirling across the waves." Built during the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty, the pier boasts a century of history. At the end, we'll see the Huilan Pavilion, the Tsingtao Beer logo. The pier resembles a long rainbow resting on the waves, while the Huilan Pavilion shimmers brilliantly. We'll also feed the seagulls and make close friends with the animals!
Qingdao Catholic Church (exterior) is originally named St. Michael's Church. If you have good photography skills, you can capture the feeling of European streets!
·afternoon
12:00 PM Lunch: Enjoy Qingdao delicacies: Fried Yellow Croaker, Sea Intestine Rice, Old Qingdao Fried Meat, Jiaodong Seafood Stir-fry, etc. (The dishes are for reference only, please refer to the actual dishes)
Depart at 1:30 PM for the Beer Museum. A visit to Qingdao is a must, as you'll experience the charm of beer culture. Explore the century-old historical and cultural area, along with the beer craftsmanship area, for a comprehensive understanding of the history of beer. You'll also receive a free sample of raw beer. The foam of the sea and the foam of beer—both Qingdao's foams are captivating.
Start your stroll at 3:00 PM at Badaguan (Huashilou and Princess Tower, 60 minutes of guided tours). Named one of China's five most beautiful urban areas by National Geographic, Badaguan boasts villas in over 20 architectural styles, including Russian, British, French, German, and Malaysian. Huashilou, with its unique architectural style, is a must-see.
Badaguan is a renowned street in Qingdao, home to a vibrant collection of international architecture. It blends parks and courtyards, lush greenery, and seasonal blooms. Over 200 unique and exotic villas nestle amidst the blossoms and trees, making it a prime location for filming exotic international films.
·night
At 17:00, the day's tour ends and you are transferred to the hotel for check-in.
At night, we recommend visiting Taidong Night Market, Licun Night Market, Lekecheng Night Market, and the Baodao Leisure and Cultural District to experience the warmth of Qingdao. You can also purchase your favorite seafood at the seafood market and enjoy it prepared and prepared to your liking at a beer house, instantly becoming a true Qingdao local.
Another way:
Enjoy dinner in a beer house: This is the spiritual place for Qingdao people, where you can enjoy a relaxing moment of the day. There are many beer houses gathered near the Yingkou Road Market in Taidong. It is so enjoyable to drink beer and eat seafood in a beer house.
Day 5: Laoshan Yangkou Scenic Area → Weihai
·morning
Departing around 9:00 AM (a one-hour drive), we arrived at the meeting place village for a free stroll, where we could dig clams, build sand piles, admire the scenery, and take selfies. The area also boasts seaside architecture reminiscent of Santorini, creating a stunning photoshoot that makes you feel like you're in Europe.
Visit Laoshan, a mountain over a thousand meters high on my country's coastline, known as the "Famous Mountain on the Sea," at an appropriate time. Enjoy the views of Qingdao's golden coastline along the way. After entering the mountain, visit the Laoshan Yangkou Scenic Area on the eastern line of Laoshan, where you can get close to nature and embrace the sea.
Another way:
Each of the scenic spots in Laoshan has its own characteristics. If you have enough time for your trip, you may want to stay for a few days in a fishing village nestled between the mountains and the sea, drink Laoshan tea, and eat freshly caught seafood. Diaolongzui Village and Fanling Village near the scenic area can provide food and accommodation and have unlimited sea views.
·afternoon
The tour concludes around 2:00 PM, and we'll travel to Weihai (a four-hour drive). As the closest city to South Korea, Weihai offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich culture of Korea without leaving the country. Eating Korean food is also a must-do in Weihai! Just across the sea from South Korea, you can enjoy authentic Korean cuisine without even having to go there.
·night
In the evening, we will arrange an authentic Korean feast: fried rice cakes, barbecue, cold noodles, rice soup, etc. (The above are only some recommended dishes, the actual dishes are subject to the final selection)
During the free time after dinner, you can go for a walk in the seaside park. The Weihai you meet for the first time will surely be filled with its unique charm.
Day 6 Liugong Island → International Bathing Beach → Transfer to the airport
·morning
After breakfast at the hotel at 8:00 AM, we will depart for the Liugong Island tour and a 2-hour guided tour of the Dingyuan warship.
Liugong Island, known as the "Fairy Mountain on the Sea" and a "Peach Blossom Land," was the site of numerous naval battles from the Ming and Qing dynasties to before the Liberation Movement, particularly the First Sino-Japanese War, which left a profound historical imprint. This tour will uncover relics dating back thousands of years to the Warring States Period, including the Beiyang Navy's Admiralty Office, the Naval Academy, and ancient artillery forts from the First Sino-Japanese War.
The Dingyuan is the first Qing Dynasty warship in Asia to be completely replicated at 1:1 according to its prototype. It is a natural barrier at sea for Weihai City and plays an extremely important role in national defense. It is known as the "Eastern Screen" and the "Unsinkable Battleship".
·afternoon
After lunch, we'll head along the coast to the International Bathing Beach. Here, you can not only enjoy the ocean view, but also find numerous unique teahouses, bookshops, and cafes nearby, allowing you to slow down and enjoy the uniquely slow pace of life. Not far from the beach, you can visit Torch 8th Street. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, it's no surprise that marine elements abound in Weihai, but charming seaside streets are particularly rare. Torch 8th Street bears a striking resemblance to a classic scene from the anime "Slam Dunk," evoking the streets of Kamakura, Japan, earning it the nickname "Weihai's Little Kamakura." Grab a cup of coffee and let your worries drift away in the sea breeze.
The tour ends at 15:00. The delicious Shandong food is still lingering on your lips and teeth. The wanderers' steps will temporarily stop and they will be taken to Weihai Station (you need to buy a ticket that is at least 2 hours later) and Weihai Airport (you need to buy a ticket that is at least 3 hours later). We will say goodbye to you reluctantly.
Another way:
Cycling in Weihai: As one of the cities in China that is particularly suitable for cycling, Weihai has routes of varying difficulty. We recommend two leisure routes:
The first route is 20km long, starting from Banyue Bay and heading north along the sea-circling road, passing Maotou Mountain, Qingzi Dragon King Temple, Grape Beach, Golden Beach, Shandong University, and reaching the International Bathing Beach.
The second route is 10.4 kilometers long and is suitable for travelers who don’t want to exert too much physical effort. It is a coastal bicycle path from Banyue Bay to Putao Beach, with beautiful coastal scenery along the way.
