Nestled within the stunning Laoshan Mountain range, Jufeng Scenic Area (巨峰) offers a breathtaking hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Known for its rugged terrain and panoramic views, Jufeng is a popular destination for those seeking adventure and tranquility in the great outdoors. This comprehensive hiking guide provides essential information on ticketing, transportation, suggested hiking routes, and helpful tips to make the most of your visit to this spectacular region. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking to enjoy the beauty of nature, Jufeng Scenic Area promises an unforgettable experience.
Ticket Information:
To access the southern scenic area, including Jufeng, Taiqing (太清), Huayan (华严), and Yangkou (仰口), you will need a Southern Line Pass (南线通票) priced at 150 RMB, which includes shuttle bus fares. Jufeng is particularly recommended for hiking enthusiasts.
Transportation:
Begin your journey by taking Qingdao Metro Line 4 to Dahedong Station (大河东站). Upon exiting from Exit A, you’ll find the Tourist Service Center where you can board the scenic area shuttle bus heading towards Jufeng.
Hiking Schedule:
Here’s my timeline for your referance:
- 8:34 AM: Arrive at the hiking entrance.
- 9:35 AM: Reach the top station of the cable car.
- 9:49 AM: Depart from the entrance gate.
- 10:04 AM: Arrive at Xunmen (巽门).
- 10:10 AM: Stop at Zhaixing Pavilion (摘星亭) for a longer break.
- 10:38 AM: Arrive at Zhenmen (震门).
- 10:46 AM: Arrive at Genmen (艮门).
- 11:03 AM: Arrive at Kanmen (坎门).
- 11:10 AM: Reach the Observation Platform (观景平台).
- 11:41 AM: Arrive at Duimen (兑门).
- 11:58 AM: Arrive at Kunmen (坤门).
- 12:20 PM: Depart from the entrance gate and begin your descent.
- 1:22 PM: Exit the scenic area.
Map of Jufeng Scenic Area
Hiking Routes:
The hiking route around Jufeng features a circular trail that can be traveled clockwise or counterclockwise. The Zhuque Stone (朱雀石), known as the “First Mountain by the Sea,” serves as a key landmark.
Clockwise Route: Begin by hiking towards Kunmen (坤门).
Complete Route: Entrance Gate (山门) → Cable Car Top Station (索道上站) → Entrance Gate (离门) → Kunmen (坤门) → Duimen (兑门) → Qianmen (乾门) → Observation Platform (观景平台) → Kanmen (坎门) → Genmen (艮门) → Zhenmen (震门) → Zhaixing Pavilion (摘星亭) → Xunmen (巽门) → Entrance Gate (离门) → Cable Car Top Station (索道上站) → Entrance Gate (山门).
Counterclockwise Route: Continue hiking towards Lingqifeng (灵旗峰). After about 10-15 minutes, you will reach Xunmen (巽门), from which a right turn will lead you up to Lingqifeng.
Complete Route: Entrance Gate (山门) → Cable Car Top Station (索道上站) → Entrance Gate (离门) → Xunmen (巽门) → Zhaixing Pavilion (摘星亭) → Zhenmen (震门) → Genmen (艮门) → Kanmen (坎门) → Observation Platform (观景平台) → Qianmen (乾门) → Duimen (兑门) → Kunmen (坤门) → Entrance Gate (离门) → Cable Car Top Station (索道上站) → Entrance Gate (山门).
Note: The clockwise route is generally easier than the counterclockwise route. If you opt for the counterclockwise route and wish to exit the Jufeng Scenic Area, you can take the shuttle bus back to Dahedong. If time permits, you may also continue exploring other routes (though I only took a brief look at other trails).
Further Options:
After returning to Dahedong, you can take the shuttle bus to the Taiqing line (八水河方向). From there, you can choose to disembark at Bashui River (八水河) and walk along the scenic coastal wooden path for 1,500 meters to reach Taiqing Palace (太清宫), or remain on the bus and head directly to the palace.
After exploring Taiqing, take the shuttle bus to Yangkou (仰口). Upon disembarking, you can capture photos of Qing Shan Fishing Village (青山渔村) and then walk a few hundred meters to find the shuttle bus heading to Yangkou, which takes a bit of time. You can also pass by Huayan and decide whether to stop there. After exploring Yangkou, board the scenic area shuttle bus back to Dahedong. It is advisable to avoid public buses due to their lengthy wait times, which can be around 30 minutes to an hour.
Tips for Your Hike:
If you plan to traverse the Bagua Gate (八卦门) and tackle other routes, consider bringing trekking poles to ease the strain on your legs.
If your goal is simply to enjoy the scenery, you may skip the Bagua Gate to conserve energy, but remember, you’ve come all this way!
Be cautious of stray dogs you might encounter along the trail; avoid provoking them.
There are not many replenishment points along the hiking route, so be sure to bring enough water and snacks to sustain your energy.