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).
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Laoshan Mountain is from April to October.
Attraction Ratings
- Scenic Beauty: ★★★★★
- Cultural Significance: ★★★★
- Excitement: ★★★★
- Uniqueness: ★★★★
- Leisure: ★★★
- Romance: ★★★
Highlights of Laoshan Mountain Scenic Area
Hualou Scenic Area
Located in the northwest of Laoshan Mountain, the Hualou Scenic Area 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 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.
Qipan Stone Scenic Area
Located on the eastern foothills of Laoshan Mountain, the Qipan Stone Scenic Area is characterized by its breathtaking mountain-sea views and the serene, mystical charm of its forest landscapes. Key attractions include the natural wonder of Qipan Stone and the natural cave of Naluoyan. The area is also home to Mingdao Temple, the highest Taoist temple in Laoshan, and Huayan Temple, the most significant Buddhist monastery in the region. This scenic area offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.
Liuqing Scenic Area
Liuqing Scenic Area is one of the main tourist regions in Laoshan Mountain, located in the southern part of the scenic area. Named after Liuqing River, it features natural ravines and valleys, serving as the southern gateway to Laoshan. From here, visitors can head north to reach the towering peak of Laoshan. To the south of Liuqing Bay lies Laogong Island, while the eastern side features Ban Island, known for its abundant sea cucumbers. Key attractions in Liuqing include Liuqing River Bay, Liuqing River Beach, and Liuqing Valley, all offering beautiful landscapes and opportunities for relaxation and exploration.
Yangkou Scenic Area
Yangkou Scenic Area 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 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.”
Visitor Guide for Laoshan Mountain Scenic Area
External Transportation
To reach the Yangkou Scenic Area, take bus routes 110, 312, 371, 106, or 383. For Hualou and Beijiushui Scenic Areas, you can take buses 365, 110, 311, or 112. Please note that the 112 bus terminates at Wolong Village outside the scenic area, and you will need to transfer to enter Beijiushui. To access Jufeng and Taiqing Scenic Areas, take buses 304, 802, 104 (some services), or 113 (some services) to Dahuadong Station.
Internal Transportation
Tunnels: Laoshan features three tunnels. The Jufeng cable car costs 40 RMB one way and 80 RMB round trip. The Taiqing cable car costs 45 RMB one way and 80 RMB round trip, running from the pass to Mingxia Cave in approximately 15 minutes. The Yangkou cable car costs 35 RMB one way and 60 RMB round trip, taking visitors from the foot of Taiping Palace to the Yangkou scenic area.
Sightseeing Buses: The sightseeing bus route connects Liuqing Scenic Area, Taiqing Scenic Area, Qipan Stone Scenic Area, and Yangkou Scenic Area, with an all-inclusive ticket priced at 40 RMB. The Beijiushui Scenic Area sightseeing bus ticket is 30 RMB, while the Jufeng Scenic Area sightseeing bus ticket is also 40 RMB.
Accommodation Options
When visiting Laoshan, various accommodation options are available based on your travel route. The Yangkou and Beijiushui Scenic Areas offer numerous lodging choices, primarily consisting of family-run guesthouses, allowing visitors to enjoy fresh air and convenient access to attractions.
Xiao Yin Homestay (小隐民宿): Situated next to the Erlong Mountain Scenic Area, this homestay is run by three passionate hosts. It features an open kitchen, dining area, reading nook, café, and home theater. Phone: 15853282020.
Beijiushui Guolao Farmhouse (北九水观崂农家宴): Located within the Beijiushui Scenic Area, this elegant and comfortable setting offers both private rooms for gatherings and unique traditional-style accommodations, allowing guests to experience a leisurely farmhouse lifestyle. Phone: 0532-87053231.
General Ridge Restaurant (将军崮酒楼): Found in the Beijiushui Scenic Area, this place offers a tranquil environment where you can enjoy the sounds of village life. They provide budget-friendly accommodations with standard and regular rooms, and during summer, guests can enjoy seasonal fruits like cherries and apricots. Phone: 0532-87053188.
Huazhu · Qingdao Youshan Courtyard Homestay (花筑·青岛悠山庭院度假民宿): Located in the Yangkou Scenic Area, surrounded by mountains and trees, this homestay features a courtyard garden filled with various flowers and plants, creating a serene and cozy atmosphere. Phone: 18661918222.
Cuisine Recommendations
On the way from Shilaoren to Laoshan, you’ll find numerous seafood markets, farmhouse dining establishments, and seafood restaurants. Many of these eateries are run by local fishermen, offering freshly caught seafood.
Specialties of Laoshan Farmhouse Dining:
- Giant Steamed Buns (特大号馒头): These oversized buns are so large that one person cannot finish them. They are fluffy and soft, best enjoyed dipped in savory meat sauce, making them incredibly delicious.
- Fried Scorpions (炸蝎子): A high-protein delicacy, fried scorpions are safe to eat and non-toxic. While some people may find it challenging to try, they are worth experiencing as they offer various health benefits. When enjoying fried scorpions, be sure to dip them in spicy salt for an unforgettable flavor.
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.