Shilaoren Sightseeing Garden (石老人观光园) is situated facing the vast blue sea and backed by the undulating Laoshan Mountains, offering a unique natural environment that boasts a rich variety of ecological tourism resources, with over 20 types of attractions. The garden enjoys fresh air and a pleasant climate year-round, making it a perfect seaside destination for relaxation and leisure.
The natural scenery in the garden is incredibly beautiful, featuring blue seas and skies, lush green mountains, and abundant vegetation. Hiking to the top provides breathtaking views of both the mountains and the sea, where the sky and ocean merge into a stunning spectacle. The gentle mountain breeze and vibrant greenery create a tranquil atmosphere, especially when mist envelops the area, blending the mountains and sea into a fairy-tale landscape. Along the path to Shilaoren, visitors can explore various spots such as the Tea Garden, Relax Valley, Love Forest, and Wenwu Pavilion, each adding to the garden’s charm.
Travel Information about Shilaoren Sightseeing Garden
Ticket Prices and Opening Hours
Ticket prices: 60 yuan during peak season; 40 yuan during the off-season.
Opening hours: 07:30 – 17:30 in peak season; 08:00 – 17:00 in the off-season.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit is from April to October, when the garden hosts various folk activities.
How to Get There
Location: No. 1 Laoshan Road, Laoshan District, Qingdao.
Transportation: Take bus routes 301, 104, or 304 to Shilaoren Sightseeing Garden Station and walk to the garden.
Scenic Ratings
- Leisure: ★★★★
- Unique: ★★★
- Beauty: ★★★
- Cultural: ★★
- Romantic: ★★
- Thrill: ★
Highlights of Shilaoren Sightseeing Garden
Qingdao Ice World
Qingdao Ice World is located on the east side of Shilaoren Sightseeing Garden and features an impressive ice sculpture-shaped building. This “Magic Ice” world maintains a constant temperature of -21°C year-round. Inside, you can find ice sculptures of mythical creatures like the Pegasus, as well as bronze lions, traditional Eskimo huts, and beautiful flower houses. The use of lighting creates a dreamy atmosphere, making it a unique frozen environment that showcases a different kind of winter wonderland.
Shilaoren (Stone Old Man)
Shilaoren, located on the southern side of the cliffs at the foot of Mu Mountain, features a 17-meter-tall stone pillar situated about 100 meters from the shore. This pillar resembles an elderly man sitting amidst the blue waves, earning it the name “Shilaoren” or “Stone Old Man.” It serves as an important landmark of the Shilaoren National Tourist Resort. Viewed from the northwest, this unique stone formation strikingly resembles an old man resting his chin on his hand, gazing thoughtfully into the distance. A beautiful and enchanting legend surrounds this remarkable stone, adding to its allure.
Legend of Shilaoren
According to legend, Shilaoren was once a hardworking and kind fisherman living at the foot of Laoshan Mountain, who lived with his beautiful and intelligent daughter. One day, the Dragon Prince kidnapped the girl and took her to the Dragon Palace. The poor old man called for her day and night by the sea, waiting desperately despite the water reaching his knees. He aged quickly, his hair turned white, and he became hunched over, yet he remained devotedly at the shore.
One day, while the old man sat in the water with his chin resting on his hand, the Dragon King cast a spell, causing the old man to gradually turn into stone. When the girl learned of her father’s fate, she was heartbroken. She bravely escaped from the Dragon Palace and rushed to her father, now turned to stone. The flowers she wore in her hair were blown away by the sea breeze, landing on an island where they took root and flourished, giving rise to the wild winter flowers found on Changmen Rock and Daguandao Island.
As the girl approached Laoshan Mountain, the Dragon King again used his magic to transform her into a massive reef, leaving her stranded in the sea. From then on, the father and daughter could only gaze at each other across the waters, never to reunite. The large reef came to be known as “Daughter Island” in memory of their tragic story.
Tea Garden
The Tea Garden at Shilaoren Sightseeing Garden features traditional high-quality tea varieties introduced from the south. These tea plants are cultivated on sunlit slopes with well-balanced soil acidity, irrigated with the pure, sweet water from Laoshan. The garden benefits from the nourishing sea mist, high-quality organic fertilizers, and meticulous cultivation practices, ensuring a completely pollution-free production process.
Through careful processing and roasting, the tea produced here boasts excellent quality, characterized by a rich color and fragrant taste, making it a prized variety among Laoshan teas. Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere of the tea garden while savoring the delightful flavors of these exceptional teas.
Xiaoyao Valley
Xiaoyao Valley is a tranquil retreat that offers a sense of serenity and freedom. The valley is composed of numerous naturally formed large rocks, creating a picturesque landscape. Within the valley, clear spring water flows, free of any impurities. After a tiring hike, visitors can refresh themselves by washing their faces in this pristine water, effectively washing away fatigue and rejuvenating the spirit. The peaceful environment and natural beauty make Xiaoyao Valley a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.
Tai Sheng Hall
Tai Sheng Hall is a display area for rare tropical plants, featuring a diverse array of unique flora. The plants vary greatly in shape and size, some standing tall and robust, while others exhibit graceful, delicate forms, adorned with vibrant colors that range from deep purples to lush greens. This hall provides urban dwellers with an excellent opportunity to connect with nature, showcasing the beauty and diversity of tropical plant life. Additionally, it serves as a modern agricultural science demonstration base for Qingdao, promoting awareness and appreciation of ecological sustainability and agricultural practices.
Visitor Guide for Shilaoren Sightseeing Garden
Things to Do
Entertainment at Shilaoren Sightseeing Garden includes a variety of activities and facilities that cater to visitors of all ages. Every year, a mountain climbing competition is held on the Double Ninth Festival (the ninth day of the ninth lunar month), attracting many participants and creating a lively atmosphere. This event not only offers a chance to relax but also encourages physical exercise.
Within the garden, visitors can enjoy several entertainment options, such as water rollers, merry-go-rounds, clown shooting games, and activities in the tranquil Xiāoyáo Valley. There are also unique tea-picking tours available for those interested in experiencing local tea culture. To enhance visitor convenience, the park offers sightseeing cars for easier transportation around the scenic area.
Food Options
Junhui Seafood Restaurant (君汇海鲜楼)
Located just west of the sightseeing garden, this restaurant specializes in various seafood dishes from Qingdao. It has two levels with several private dining rooms, and you can enjoy sea views from the windows. The ingredients are fresh, the flavors are excellent, and the portions are generous with quick service.
- Address: Hong Kong East Road, west side of Shilaoren Sightseeing Garden
- Phone: 0532-88832987
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Recommended Dishes: Grilled Mixed Fish (烧杂鱼), Fried Oysters and Shrimp (蛎虾)
Hongyuanxin Seafood Restaurant (宏源鑫海鲜餐厅)
Also located on the west side of the sightseeing garden, this restaurant is just across the road from the sea. It features a warm and cozy interior with a wide variety of dishes, offering large portions at reasonable prices. All seafood is freshly caught from the ocean.
- Address: 1 Laoshan Road, 50 meters west of Shilaoren Sightseeing Garden
- Phone: 0532-82099988
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Recommended Dishes: Home-style Large Pomfret (家常大鲳鱼), Spicy Stir-fried Eel (辣炒干鳗林)
Accommodation Recommendations
Qingdao Hailin Mountain Villa Hotel (青岛海林山庄大酒店)
This is a three-star foreign-related hotel located within the scenic area of Shilaoren Sightseeing Garden. It offers a tranquil environment with views of the golden coast of Shilaoren and the lush Fushan Mountain behind.
- Address: No. 24 Hong Kong East Road
- Phone: 0532-88016688
Youdi Water Place Apartment (有水地方公寓)
Located at Building 4, Shilaoren Garden, No. 295 Hong Kong East Road, this hotel has a pleasant environment and uniquely decorated rooms. It is just a short walk to the beach, and the surrounding area has convenient amenities.
- Phone: 13793207176