Explore the breathtaking coastal beauty of Laoshan Mountain in Qingdao on this perfect day trip itinerary. This route takes you through scenic seaside trails, hidden beaches, colorful villages, and panoramic viewpoints, offering a mix of natural wonders and cultural highlights. Whether you’re driving or taking public transport, the journey along the Laoshan coastal road is convenient and accessible, with free parking available at multiple spots. Follow this guide to make the most of your time exploring one of Qingdao’s most picturesque routes.
Getting There:
- By Car: Set your GPS to Yangkou Checkpoint (仰口检查站) for easy navigation. Parking is free, and spaces are widely available.
- By Bus: From the city center, take the Langu Express Line to Puli Metro Station, transfer to Bus 620, head towards Yangkou, and then transfer to Bus 618 to reach Qingshan Station. Buses run frequently, making public transport a convenient option.
Recommended Route (In Order):
1. Yangkou Checkpoint (仰口检查站): Entry to the checkpoint is free, but during the off-season, you may need to reserve a spot in advance.
2. Qianli Sightseeing Corridor (千里观光廊道): This coastal boardwalk offers stunning views of the sea and surrounding landscapes. It’s an ideal place for a relaxing stroll while taking in the ocean breeze.
3. Mo Hai Beautiful Villas (陌海美墅): Along the road, you’ll find a viewing platform where you can admire colorful houses and enjoy a panoramic view of Quanquan River Beach (泉心河沙滩) below.
4. Quanquan River Beach (泉心河沙滩): This secluded beach feels like a hidden gem, offering a tranquil spot for photos, particularly with the colorful houses perched on the cliffs nearby. Be mindful of the strong waves.
5. Quanquan River Estuary (泉心河入海口): Here, the Quanquan River meets the sea, surrounded by massive boulders, forests, and the ocean, creating a picturesque, unique landscape.
6. Laoshan Tea Garden (崂陈茶园): Take a leisurely walk through this tea garden by the sea. Don’t miss the giant rabbit figurine, a quirky highlight of the area.
7. Huangshan Village (黄山村): This village has two scenic viewpoints, one with a stone engraved with the Chinese character for “good fortune” (福). One of the viewpoints offers a breathtaking view of the “glass sea.”
8. Qingshan Primary School (青山小学): This seaside football field is an ideal spot for drone photography, offering incredible views of the surrounding area.
9. Qingshan North Viewing Platform (青山北观景平台): Pause here to take in the awe-inspiring cliffside views. The dramatic landscape is well worth the stop.
10. Qingshan Fishing Village Viewing Platform (青山渔村观景台): This popular spot is located near Qingshan Reservoir (青山水库). Although parking can be tight, it’s a must-see for photographers, with beautiful rock formations framing the ocean views.
11. Huan Dao Road (环岛路): This famous coastal road offers stunning views, but stopping for photos isn’t permitted. Be sure to prepare your camera or phone to capture the drive on video.
12. Shazikou Square (沙子口广场): Close to a metro station, this square features red-roofed houses along the coast that make for fantastic photos. It’s another top spot for social media enthusiasts looking for the perfect shot.