Ultimate Guide Laoshan Mountain Scenic Area – No.1 Mountain on the Sea

Qingdao Suburbs / Qingdao Scenery / By
Laoshan Mountain Scenic Area No.1 Mountain On The Sea

Laoshan Mountain (崂山), located in the Laoshan District of Qingdao, Shandong Province, is historically known by various names, including Laoshan, Lao Mountain, and Ao Mountain. Its highest peak, Laoding, rises to approximately 1,133 meters above sea level, standing majestically along the Yellow Sea. Revered as the “First Famous Mountain on the Sea,” Laoshan is the only significant mountain in China that rises directly from the coast, creating a stunning landscape where the mountains meet the sea.

With an 87-kilometer-long coastline and 18 offshore islands, Laoshan offers breathtaking coastal scenery. Walking along its stone-paved paths, you’ll be captivated by the contrast of the vast blue sea on one side, with waves crashing against the shore, and lush pine forests and striking rock formations on the other, evoking a sense of peace and grandeur.

Historically, Laoshan was a Taoist center with “nine palaces, eight temples, and seventy-two nunneries,” housing thousands of Taoist priests. Today, the largest and oldest surviving temple is Taiqing Palace. The scenic area includes several key attractions, such as the Giant Peak, Liuqing, Taiqing, Qipan Stone, Yangkou, Beijiushui, and Hualou, many of which are connected along a continuous travel route.

Travel Information about Laoshan Mountain

Tickets and Opening Hours

  • Tickets: Peak season pass: 180 RMB, Off-season pass: 120 RMB.
  • Opening Hours: Peak season (06:00–19:00), Off-season (07:00–17:00).

How to Get to Laoshan Mountain

Subway Transfer Guide

  • Jufeng Route (巨峰线): Take Metro Line 4 and get off at Dahedong Station (大河东站) at Exit A. From there, head to the Dahedong Distribution Center (大河东集散中心) to board the Jufeng sightseeing bus.
  • Taiqing Route (太清线): Again, take Metro Line 4 to Dahedong Station (大河东站) at Exit A. Go to the Dahedong Distribution Center to catch the Taiqing sightseeing bus.
  • Beijiushui Route (北九水): Ride Metro Line 11 and get off at Beijiushui Station (北九水站). From there, transfer to the Beijiushui Distribution Center (北九水集散中心) and board the sightseeing bus.
  • Yangkou Route (仰口): Take Metro Line 11 to Puli Station (浦里站) at Exit A and then transfer to a bus to reach your destination.
  • Huayan Route (华严): From Yangkou, switch to the sightseeing bus or take Bus 618 to arrive at Huayan.

Sightseeing Bus Transfer Guide

  • Purchasing Sightseeing Bus Tickets: Sightseeing bus tickets cannot be purchased separately; they must be bundled with the scenic area entrance tickets. We recommend purchasing the Taiqing Route Combo Ticket (without Jufeng) for 130 RMB, which includes a 90 RMB entrance ticket and a 40 RMB bus ticket.
  • Operating Hours for Sightseeing Buses:
    • March 1 – June 30: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
    • July 1 – August 31: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    • September 1 – November 30: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
    • December 1 – February 28 (next year): 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Sightseeing Bus Transfer Routes:
    • Starting from the Laoshan Visitor Distribution Center: Bashui River ➠ Taiqing Square ➠ Taiqing Cableway ➠ Walk to Yakou Parking Lot ➠ Huayan ➠ Yangkou (Sit on the right side for better views).
    • Starting from Yangkou: Yangkou ➠ Huayan ➠ Yakou Parking Lot ➠ Walk to Taiqing Cableway ➠ Bashui River ➠ Laoshan Visitor Distribution Center (Sit on the same side as the driver for better views).

Attraction Ratings

  • Scenic Beauty: ★★★★★
  • Cultural Significance: ★★★★
  • Excitement: ★★★★
  • Uniqueness: ★★★★
  • Leisure: ★★★
  • Romance: ★★★

Highlights of Laoshan Mountain Scenic Area

Map Of Laoshan Mountain

Laoshan is famous for its dual appeal of both mountain and sea views. However, not all scenic areas provide access to both. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect:

  • Jiushui (九水): Primarily mountain views.
  • Jufeng (巨峰): Offers both mountain and sea views.
  • Yangkou (仰口): Both mountain and sea views are available.
  • Huayan (华严): Enjoy stunning views of mountains and the sea.
  • Taiqing (太清): Features mountain and sea vistas.

Hualou Scenic Area

Located in the northwest of Laoshan Mountain, the Hualou Scenic Area (华楼景区) is famous for its unique rock formations and natural forest landscapes. Key attractions in this area include Fahai Temple, Xiashuyuan, Hualou Palace, Shimen An, and Shimen Peak. The Ming Dynasty inscription by the Shandong governor, which reads “First Famous Mountain on the Sea,” is engraved within this scenic area, highlighting its historical and cultural significance.

Beijiushui Scenic Area

The Beijiushui Scenic Area (北九水风景区) is divided into “Outer Jiushui” and “Inner Jiushui.” This area is known for its numerous streams that rush down the long, deep mountain valleys. Surrounded by towering peaks, the sound of birds, and a blend of light and shadows, the landscape is filled with lush greenery. The intertwining of mountains and water creates a stunning gallery of ever-changing views, where every step and every bend reveals new beauty.

Yangkou Scenic Area

Yangkou Scenic Area (仰口游览区) is located in the northeastern part of Laoshan Mountain, nestled against the majestic Xianshan Peak and facing the shimmering waves of the Yellow Sea. Named after Yangkou Bay, this area is renowned for its stunning combination of mountain landscapes, coastal beauty, and unique rock formations. Historically celebrated as a “Heavenly Mountain Connected to the Realm” and a “Blessed Land of Caves,” Yangkou offers a serene and picturesque setting. Visitors can enjoy the enchanting views, explore Taoist temples, and appreciate the natural wonders that have made this area a beloved destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Jufeng Scenic Area

Jufeng Scenic Area (巨峰景区) is located in the central part of Laoshan Mountain and is named after the highest peak, Jufeng, also known as Laoding. Watching the sunrise over the sea from Laoding is a must-see experience for visitors to Laoshan, and the phenomenon known as “Jufeng Xu Zhao” is one of the “Twelve Famous Scenic Views of Laoshan.” The area is characterized by its majestic mountain and sea vistas, celestial phenomena, dense forests, and unique rock formations, creating a breathtaking landscape that captivates all who visit. The stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage make Jufeng a remarkable destination, leaving visitors in awe of its natural beauty.

Taiqing Scenic Area

Taiqing Scenic Area is located in the southeastern part of Laoshan Mountain and is known for its rich cultural and natural attractions. Key sites include Taiqing Palace, Shangqing Palace, and Mingxia Cave, which showcase the area’s historical significance. Natural features such as Bashui River and Longtan Waterfall enhance the region’s beauty. Visitors to Taiqing Palace may even be fortunate enough to witness the rare phenomenon of a “mirage,” known locally as “haishi shenlou.”

Boat Tours of Laoshan Mountain

  • Ticket: To embark on a boat tour around Laoshan, you must purchase a ticket that includes entry to the Taiqing area, as the Taiqing Tourist Pier is located within this zone. Pre-sale boat tickets are cheaper at 95 RMB per person, while same-day tickets can be as high as 150 RMB.
  • Types of Boats Available:
    •  27m luxury cruise ship
    •  7.5m sightseeing boat
    •  33.6m luxury yacht
  • Route: The boat departs from Taiqing Pier, making stops at Taiqing Bay, Bashui River, the First Stone Carving of the Sea, Fishing Platform, Eight Immortals Mound, and Laoshan Head before returning.
  • Duration: Approximately 40 minutes.
  • Three Key Features of Viewing Laoshan from the Sea:
    • Mystical Fog: Experience the mountain shrouded in clouds, creating an ethereal and enchanting atmosphere.
    • Majestic Peaks: Enjoy breathtaking views of towering mountain ranges, showcasing the grandeur of nature.
    • Mountain and Sea Harmony: Witness the stunning interaction between land and sea, highlighting the natural artistry of Laoshan.

Visitor Guide for Laoshan Mountain Scenic Area

Three Main Routes to Explore Laoshan Mountain

South Route (Taiping and Giant Peak Scenic Areas)

Taiping Scenic Area (太清景区)

  • The Taiping Scenic Area is rich in Taoist culture and history. Travelers can reach this area by car or taking Metro Line 4 to Dahedong Tourist Service Center, where parking is free. Upon arrival, you can purchase tickets for either Taiping or Giant Peak scenic areas. Ticket prices for adults are ¥130, while students pay ¥85.
  • For those looking to enjoy a leisurely hike, take the sightseeing bus to Bashui River and begin your ascent. The trail takes approximately three hours to reach Taiping Palace (太清宫). You can also opt for a partial hike, with the option of taking a cable car halfway up the mountain for ¥45 one way. After descending, you’ll find yourself at Taiping Palace (太清宫), a must-see attraction that requires a separate entry fee of ¥27. The palace grounds also offer a stunning view of the vast sea and pebble-strewn beaches nearby, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.
  • For visitors traveling with elderly family members or children, there’s an alternative route that’s less demanding. You can take the bus directly to Ya Kou and walk for about half an hour to reach Taiping Palace (太清宫).

Giant Peak Scenic Area (巨峰景区)

  • If you’re seeking a more challenging adventure, Giant Peak is your destination. As the highest point in Laoshan Mountain, it often offers the opportunity to witness the ethereal sea of clouds. Tickets for Giant Peak are ¥120 for adults and ¥80 for students.
  • Once you arrive at the drop-off point, enter through the “Heaven and Earth Harmony” (天地淳和) archway. The full hike takes about six hours at a relaxed pace, but if you’d prefer to shorten the climb, you can take the cable car for ¥40 one way. After getting off the cable car, it’s only a 15-minute walk to the first gate of the Bagua Gate (八卦门), which forms a circular path. No matter which direction you start, you will return to the entrance after completing the loop. For those looking for a quick route to the summit, it’s recommended to take the right path, where you’ll soon reach the Star-Plucking Pavilion (摘星亭), known for its panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Middle Route (Nine Waters Scenic Area)

  • The middle route leads to the Nine Waters Scenic Area (九水景区), a popular destination known for its stunning waterfalls and rivers, particularly after rainfall when the scenery is even more breathtaking. Visitors can reach this area by car or by taking Metro Line 11 to the North Nine Waters Station. From there, head to the tourist center where a sightseeing bus will transport you into the scenic area. Parking is free.
  • Nine Waters is the only scenic area in Laoshan without ocean views, but its magnificent waterfalls more than make up for it. Tickets are ¥90 for adults and ¥60 for students. Although there are no cable cars on this route, the hike through Nine Waters takes around three to four hours and is filled with spectacular river views and waterfalls. For the best experience, plan your visit after a recent rain, when the water is flowing at its peak, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

North Route (Yangkou and Huayan Scenic Areas)

Yangkou Scenic Area (仰口景区)

  • The Yangkou Scenic Area is a bit more remote than the others, so it’s best to drive. You can set your GPS to the Yangkou Scenic Area ticket office, where parking is free. This route is known for its stunning combination of mountains, sea, and beach, making it one of the most picturesque areas in Laoshan. Tickets for Yangkou are priced at ¥90 for adults and ¥45 for students.
  • Ideal for beginners, the trail takes about three hours to complete. You can take a cable car for ¥35 one way. Along the way, you’ll encounter several attractions, including Taiping Palace (太平宫), Shouzi Peak (寿字峰), and the fascinating Mitiandong (觅天洞). However, visitors with small children, elderly companions, or anyone who may be physically challenged should skip the cave as it features narrow, humid passages that require climbing at a steep 90-degree angle.

Huayan Scenic Area (华严景区)

  • Lastly, the Huayan Scenic Area (华严景区) is perfect for those interested in Buddhist culture. Visitors can explore notable attractions such as the statue of Master Faxian (法显像), the Huazang World Gate (华藏世界门), Huayan Temple (华严寺), and the Three Saints Hall (三圣殿). At the top of the mountain lies the Narayana Cave (那罗延窟), where devout pilgrims perform three-step prostrations as they make their way to the temple.
  • Tickets for this scenic area are ¥90 for adults and ¥45 for students. However, compared to the other routes, the views along this path are considered less remarkable, with large boulders dominating much of the landscape. There are also no cable cars on this route, and its scenery often pales in comparison to the more popular routes. Therefore, it’s recommended only for those with a particular interest in Buddhist landmarks.

Different Itineraries to Explore Laoshan Mountain

A Lazy Day-Trip to Laoshan Mountain: Save Time, Energy and Stress

  • Getting There: Take Metro Line 4 or drive to the Dahedong parking lot (大河东停车场), where parking is free. Do not navigate directly to Yangkou (仰口) — it’s too far and exhausting. Save yourself the trouble!
  • Tickets: At the Dahedong Visitor Center (大河东游客中心), purchase a combined ticket for Taiqing and Yangkou scenic areas (90 RMB), along with the sightseeing bus ticket (40 RMB). The bus is a must – it’s convenient and affordable.
  • Taiqing Palace (太清宫): Take the sightseeing bus to Taiqing Palace. Sit on the right side of the bus for the best views of the sea and wooden boardwalks. Once there, explore Taiqing Palace (additional 27 RMB entry fee).
  • Qingshan Fishing Village (青山渔村): From Taiqing Palace, hop on the sightseeing bus to the Taiqing cable car lower station (太清索道下站). Walk 200 meters to the Yako Pass for a panoramic view of Qingshan Fishing Village.
  • Yangkou Scenic Area (仰口景区): Continue by bus along the scenic coastal road to Yangkou. Take the cable car up the mountain and either hike further up or walk down past landmarks like Shouzi Mountain (寿字山), Taiping Palace (太平宫), and Lion Peak (狮子峰).
  • Return Options:
    • Take the sightseeing bus back to Dahedong.
    • Alternatively, take Bus 620 (620路) from Yangkou to Puli (浦里) and then return via Metro Line 11 (地铁11号线).

Two-Day Itinerary for Exploring Laoshan Mountain

Day 1: Taiqing Scenic Area

  • Route: Start your journey by taking Qingdao Metro Line 4 to Dahedong Station (大河东站), which provides direct access to Laoshan Mountain.
  • Tickets: Purchase your Taiqing Scenic Area ticket for 130 RMB via the Ailao Mountain tourism service account. This two-day ticket includes shuttle bus fares and grants access to the southern scenic area, including the Yangkou (仰口) and Huayan (华严) areas.
  • Shuttle Bus: Once inside the park, choose a seat on the right side of the shuttle bus for stunning views of the sea. Laoshan Mountain is renowned as the highest peak along China’s coastline, often referred to as the “First Mountain by the Sea.”
  • First Stop – Bashui River Square (八水河广场): Get off at Bashui River Square and stroll along the wooden walkways, passing by the Taiqing Water Moon Platform (太清水月台) to reach Taiqing Palace (太清宫). This palace is the oldest and largest Taoist temple in Laoshan, featuring key religious buildings such as the Three Officials Hall (三官殿), Three Pure Ones Hall (三清殿), and the Three Sovereigns Hall (三皇殿). Don’t miss the ancient Han Cypress (古汉柏) over 2,000 years old and the Dragon Head Elm (龙头榆) that is more than 1,000 years old, as well as the statue of Laozi (老子) located on the back mountain of Taiqing Palace.
  • Photostop at Yakou (垭口): After visiting Taiqing Palace, make sure to head to Yakou (mountain pass) to take a photo at the Qing Shan Fishing Village (青山渔村) archway. From here, you can overlook the entire fishing village, with its colorful red and yellow roofs creating a vibrant contrast against the green trees and blue sea.
  • Cable Car Ride: Take the Taiqing Cableway (太清索道) to ascend directly to Mingxia Cave (明霞洞). After exploring the cave, you’ll descend along the mountain, passing by Shangqing Palace (上清宫) and encountering ancient ginkgo trees along the way. Continue to Longtan Waterfall (龙潭瀑) until you reach Bashui River Square. On the shuttle bus ride back down, sit on the left side to enjoy the evening sea views as you exit the park, then take the metro back to your accommodation.

Day 2: Huayan Temple and Yangkou Scenic Area

  • Morning at Huayan Temple (华严寺): Start your day at the newly renovated Huayan Scenic Area (华严景区), which is less crowded. Visit the Pagoda Courtyard (塔院), Huayan Temple (华严寺), and Yugu Stone (鱼鼓石), concluding your tour at Narayan Cave (那罗延窟). The round trip will take approximately two hours if you walk briskly. Along the way, there are several excellent viewpoints to catch glimpses of the Hanging Moon Peak (挂月峰), known for its striking appearance.
  • Explore Yangkou Scenic Area (仰口景区): Next, head to the Yangkou Cableway (仰口索道), which costs 35 RMB. Choose the green cable car for a thrilling ride over a glass floor, reaching Mi Tian Cave (觅天洞) in just a few minutes. The cave’s paths can be narrow and steep, with many sections allowing only single-file passage, making it an adventurous experience.
  • Cave Exploration: Be sure to explore the natural cave, following the winding paths upward. The experience is engaging and leads you through dramatic rock formations. After navigating the narrow passages, you’ll reach the Tianyuan (天苑), the highest point in Yangkou.
  • Returning Options: If you prefer to conserve energy, you can take the cable car back down. For those who are not in a hurry, walking down the slope offers a pleasant descent, which is not steep. The views overlooking the bay from the high vantage point are spectacular, providing a fitting finale to your adventure at Laoshan Mountain.

A Day Trip Around Laoshan Mountain’s Coastal Road

  • 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.

Ultimate Guide to Enjoying Autumn Foliage in Laoshan Mountain

1. Jufeng Scenic Area (巨峰游览区)

Jufeng, the highest peak in Laoshan, is one of the earliest areas to showcase the beauty of autumn. As the temperature drops, the trees begin to display their vibrant red and golden hues. The landscape turns into a patchwork of colors, and the leaves dance in the wind, offering a perfect autumn spectacle.

  • Best viewing time: Late October to early December
  • Recommended areas: The hiking route from the lower to the upper cable car stations and the circular trail around the Bagua Gate (八卦门)
  • Key spots: Fengye Garden (枫叶苑) and the hiking trail are best for viewing red leaves, with the peak season falling in mid-November.

2. Taiqing Scenic Area (太清游览区)

Taiqing Scenic Area is home to one of Laoshan’s most iconic autumn attractions: a thousand-year-old ginkgo tree. Its golden leaves provide a striking contrast to the surrounding red maple leaves and the traditional Taoist temples. The serene atmosphere, coupled with the breathtaking scenery, makes this area a must-visit during the fall season.

  • Best viewing time: Late October to early December
  • Recommended areas: Taiqing Palace (太清宫), Shangqing Palace (上清宫), Laozilu (老子路), Bashui River (八水河) to Shangqing Palace, and the cable car route to Mingxia Cave (明霞洞)
  • Key spots: Taiqing Palace and Mingxia Cave are ideal for viewing the golden ginkgo leaves, while Laozilu and the Moon Walkway (步月廊) at Taiqing Palace are best for red maple leaves. November is the prime time for leaf-peeping in this area.

3. Yangkou Scenic Area (仰口游览区)

Unlike other areas in Laoshan, Yangkou Scenic Area is filled with evergreen plants that retain their lush green beauty throughout the year. While the autumn foliage is less prominent here, the clear blue skies, crisp air, and views of the sea and mountains create a picturesque backdrop for an autumn adventure. The mix of blue skies, green mountains, and golden autumn hues offers a unique and refreshing contrast.

  • Best viewing time: Late October to early December
  • Recommended areas: Taiping Palace (太平宫), the Yangkou cable car, and the hiking trails
  • Key spots: The area around Taiping Palace is particularly scenic, with red leaves peaking around mid-November.

4. Huayan Scenic Area (华严游览区)

Huayan Temple (华严寺) is known for its tranquil beauty, especially in late autumn. The ancient ginkgo trees surrounding the temple turn a brilliant gold, carpeting the ground with their fallen leaves. The temple, with its serene atmosphere and golden backdrop, becomes a peaceful haven, perfect for quiet contemplation amidst the vibrant autumn colors.

  • Best viewing time: Late October to early December
  • Recommended areas: Huayan Temple and the hiking route from the temple to Naluoyan Cave (那罗延窟)
  • Key spots: The hiking trails and the temple grounds are best for viewing golden ginkgo leaves, with the prime time being mid-November.

5. Jiushui Scenic Area (九水游览区)

Jiushui Scenic Area is famous for its autumn display of red maple leaves. Every year, the mountains are covered in a sea of red, creating a dreamy and enchanting atmosphere. The fiery red of the maple trees is balanced by the misty mountain air, making it a perfect destination for autumn lovers. Visitors can take Metro Line 11 to Beijiushui Station and transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus for a seamless experience.

  • Best viewing time: Late October to early December
  • Recommended areas: Weizhu Temple (蔚竹观), Maple Leaf Avenue (枫叶大道), and the hiking trails
  • Key spots: Weizhu Temple is best for viewing golden ginkgo leaves, while Maple Leaf Avenue and the hiking paths are ideal for red maple leaves, with the peak season extending into late November.

Activities at Laoshan Mountain

When you arrive at Laoshan, don’t just climb the mountains and enjoy the sea; take a stroll through the tea gardens and experience the unique scenery they offer. Here are some recommended tea gardens:

Wanli Jiang Tea Garden (万里江茶园) – Unique Spring Tea Dumplings

  • Wanli Jiang Tea Garden is the largest tea plantation in the Laoshan area. It is usually not open to the public and only allows visitors during the tea festival. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the tea garden and visit a modern tea processing workshop. During the tea festival, you can taste the special “Spring Tea Dumplings,” made with spring tea as the filling. These dumplings are rich and aromatic, leaving a lasting impression. However, it’s a matter of luck to catch the festival during your visit.
  • Transportation: Take bus routes 630, 304, or 104 to Wanli Jiang Tea Garden Station.

Shilaoren Ecological Tea Garden (石老人生态茶园) – Try Stir-Frying Spring Tea Yourself

  • During the tea festival, Shilaoren Ecological Tea Garden hosts a Dragon and Phoenix Tea Stir-Frying Event. Here, you can watch the entire process of stir-frying and making tea. Under the guidance of the tea-makers, you can also try your hand at stir-frying spring tea yourself. After becoming a stir-frying master, you can take home your freshly made tea or purchase some spring tea prepared by real tea masters. The Laoshan Tea Festival is held every May, but the exact dates vary based on local arrangements.
  • Transportation: Take bus routes 301, 304, or 104 to Shilaoren Scenic Area.

Local Tips for an Unforgettable Experiance in Laoshan Mountain

First-Time Visitors: If you’re visiting Laoshan for the first time, start with the Yangkou/Taiqing scenic areas. For your return journey, simply retrace the route you took.

Ticket Information: Tickets can be purchased on-site via self-service machines or at ticket counters. You can also buy tickets in advance through the Laoshan Scenic Area WeChat account or other online channels, with consistent pricing across all platforms for your convenience. After purchasing your ticket, simply scan your ID and queue up for the bus. Keep an eye on the LED screens for bus routes, making sure you board the correct one for either Jufeng or Taiqing.

Sightseeing Bus: You can transfer between sightseeing buses as many times as you wish without having to repurchase tickets.

Cable Cars: The cable cars in Laoshan are primarily located in three scenic areas: Jufeng, Taiqing Palace, and Yangkou. Utilizing these cable cars can save time and energy, especially in these popular spots. Note that other scenic areas do not have cable cars available. Note that the Taiqing route’s final stop is the Taiqing Cableway; it does not go directly to Yangkou. You will need to walk to Yakou Parking Lot to switch to another sightseeing bus to reach Yangkou.