A One-Day Tour to Yangtian Mountain Secret Realm

Yangtian Mountain Fantasy Journey Guide

Preparation

Documents

Bring your ID card. If you have student ID, senior citizen card, military officer ID, or other discount-eligible documents, bring them along as well.

Clothing

The average temperature in Weifang in October is 10℃ - 20℃, with a large temperature difference between day and night. During the day, wear comfortable clothes such as single-layer cotton-linen short sets, T-shirts, and thin denim shirts and pants; at night, it is recommended to wear warm clothes like jackets, windbreakers, blazers, or thin sweaters. The temperature is lower on the mountain, so it’s best to bring a thick coat.

Other Items

Prepare comfortable sports shoes for walking in the mountainous area. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. Carry a lightweight backpack with a water bottle and some snacks. If you plan to watch the sunset on the mountain, bring a flashlight.

Transportation Guide

Self-driving

Starting from downtown Weifang, take the Rongwei Expressway and Qingyin Expressway, covering about 100 kilometers, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Set your navigation directly to "Yangtian Mountain National Forest Park." There is a parking lot inside the scenic area, making parking convenient.

Public Transportation

First, take a long-distance bus from downtown Weifang to Qingzhou Bus Station, then transfer to a shuttle bus heading to Yangtian Mountain. However, shuttle bus schedules may be limited, so check the times in advance to avoid delays.

Scenic Highlights and Tour Routes

Lingze Cave

This is a major feature of Yangtian Mountain. The cave’s unique formations include stalagmites, stone pillars, and stone curtains, all beautifully illuminated by lights. Entering the cave feels like stepping into a mysterious underground palace. The visit takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Wenshu Temple

A historic Buddhist temple with simple and elegant architecture. Ancient trees surround the temple, creating a serene environment. Here you can experience a strong religious atmosphere and relax your mind and body. Visiting time is about 0.5 to 1 hour.

Yangtian Trough

A rare limestone karst depression in the world, high around the edges and low in the middle, shaped like a giant trough. Standing on the top of the trough offers a broad view overlooking surrounding mountains and forests, with spectacular scenery. You can stroll here to enjoy the natural landscape and take photos. The visit takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Recommended Route

Morning: After arriving at the scenic area, first head to Lingze Cave to explore the mysteries of the underground cave.
Noon: Have lunch at the scenic area’s restaurant, tasting local specialties such as Qingzhou whole lamb and Longsheng pastries.
Afternoon: Visit Wenshu Temple to experience Buddhist culture, then go to Yangtian Trough to enjoy the natural scenery.
Evening: If the weather permits, find a suitable spot on the mountain to watch the sunset and admire the beautiful glow over the forest.

Food Recommendations

Inside the Scenic Area

The scenic area’s restaurant offers a variety of local dishes, such as Qingzhou whole lamb, tender meat with delicious broth; Longsheng pastries, sweet and flavorful with many varieties.

Around the Scenic Area

There are also many specialty restaurants in nearby villages or towns. You can try local farmhouse dishes like stir-fried mountain chicken and stewed mountain mushrooms with meat, made with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors.

Accommodation Suggestions

Inside the Scenic Area

Yangtian Mountain International Youth Hostel offers a comfortable environment at a moderate price, close to the main scenic spots, convenient for travel. For a different lodging experience, you can also choose wooden villas inside the scenic area to get closer to nature, though prices are relatively higher.

Outside the Scenic Area

Qingzhou city has hotels of various grades to choose from. Staying in the city allows you to stroll around Qingzhou Ancient City at night and taste more local delicacies. It takes about 30 to 40 minutes to drive from the city to the scenic area.

Notes

1. Some paths inside the scenic area are rugged; pay attention to safety and follow the park’s rules while touring.

2. Protect the environment by not littering.

3. Check the weather forecast for the scenic area in advance. Bad weather may affect the opening of some attractions and your experience.

4. Prices inside the scenic area may be slightly higher than in the city, so prepare some necessary items and snacks in advance.