Beijiushui (北九水), located in Laoshan Mountain (崂山), is one of my favorite hiking routes. It offers a relaxing and leisurely experience amidst high-oxygen forests and serene green pools, making it the perfect mental rejuvenation. The hike is moderate and perfect for nature lovers, with picturesque views and clean air, offering a peaceful escape from daily life.
Route Overview and Details
The Beijiushui hiking route is approximately 5 to 6 kilometers long with an elevation gain of 450 meters. The trail follows a clockwise loop and takes about 3 hours to complete. For first-time visitors, I recommend setting aside 4 to 5 hours to fully enjoy the experience, including time for photos and relaxation by the water.
How to Get to Beijiushui Scenic Area
- By Subway: Take Line 11 to Beijiushui Station (北九水站). The Beijiushui Transfer Center (北九水换乘中心), located at the subway station, will connect you to the shuttle buses entering the scenic area.
- By Bus: If you want to save a little money, skip the shuttle bus and take the 639 bus from the subway station. The bus will take you to the Guolao Parking Lot (观崂停车场), and it costs about 30 RMB less than the shuttle.
- By Car: If you are driving, be aware that cars with out-of-town license plates might not be allowed past the inspection points. However, you can use a local trick: search for “Shuangshiwu Village” (双石屋村) on popular review sites and mention that you’re going for a meal. This will allow you to park at the Shuangshiwu parking lot, which is closer to the entrance than the Guolao Parking Lot. The road leading up is narrow, so be cautious and drive carefully.
Ticketing and Entry Process
Once you arrive, you’ll need to scan your ID at the entrance for ticket verification. Afterward, follow the signs to start your exploration of the “Nine Waterfalls and Eighteen Pools” (九水十八潭) scenic spots.
The Main Hiking Route of Beijiushui
The main hiking trail of Beijiushui is as follows: Guolao Parking Lot (观崂停车场) → Wooden Boardwalk (木栈道) → Inner Three Pools (内三水) → Wuji Pond (无极潭) → Ziqi Pond (自取潭) → Juhua Pond (俱化潭) → Weizhu View (蔚竹观) → Liuyun Pavilion (留韵亭) → Qingxin Pond (清心潭) → Chaoyin Waterfall (潮音瀑) → Yulin Gorge (鱼鳞峡) → Seven Water Curtains (七水垂帘) → Dalong Gate (大龙门) → Lengcui Gorge (冷翠峡) → Buzhi Pond (不滞潭) → Wuyi Pond (无已潭) → Deyi Pond (得意潭) → Deyu Pond (得鱼潭) → Youjian Pond (有间潭)
The beauty of Beijiushui lies in its integration of both mountains and water. After passing the Weizhu View (蔚竹观), you’ll encounter dense forests on the mountain slopes, allowing you to slowly enjoy the scenery and breathe in the fresh, oxygen-rich air. For first-timers, take your time and appreciate the sights at your own pace.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Refreshments: There are many resting points along the trail where you can stop for a break. You’ll find shelters selling tea and snacks, so feel free to take a moment to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Restrooms: There are restroom facilities near the entrance, as well as near the Chaoyin Waterfall (潮音瀑) and Weizhu View (蔚竹观).
- Swimming: Whether or not you can swim depends on personal preference. While some areas are safe for wading, be careful and avoid disturbing the natural environment. Please remember to leave no trash behind, and refrain from any activities that might damage the area.
- Best Time to Visit: It’s ideal to visit Beijiushui right after rainfall or on the day after a heavy rain. The waterfalls will be at their most spectacular, and the air will be fresh and clean.
- Post-Hike Cafe Stops: After finishing the hike, you can visit one of the many hidden cafes in the mountains. There are plenty of cafes to choose from, each offering a unique experience and breathtaking views.
Seasonal Considerations
If you visit Beijiushui between May and July, it’s a great opportunity to pick fresh fruit, such as cherries (樱桃) and apricots (杏桃). Local villagers often offer these fruits for picking, usually at around 20-30 RMB per person, though the price can be negotiated. I highly recommend this experience! It’s always nice to bring home some fresh fruit after a hike.
Recommended Gear and Clothing
- Shoes: Avoid wearing leather shoes or high heels. Opt for hiking shoes or non-slip sports shoes. Canvas shoes are also a good choice, but avoid sandals or flip-flops as they’re not suitable for mountain hiking and may lead to ankle injuries.
- Backpack: A small backpack is ideal for carrying snacks, fruits, and a couple of bottles of water. Starting from April, make sure to bring at least two bottles of water per person.
- Clothing: Wear breathable, quick-dry clothes. If it’s a rainy day, a lightweight waterproof jacket or windbreaker is recommended to keep you warm and dry.
Final Thoughts
- Leave No Trace: It’s essential to clean up after yourself during the hike. Carry out all your waste, leaving the area as beautiful as you found it.
- Family-Friendly: Beijiushui is a relatively easy hike, making it suitable for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a relaxing walk in nature. The route offers scenic views without too much physical strain.