The Yangkou Scenic Area (仰口游览区) is located in the northeastern part of Laoshan Mountain and is renowned for its stunning features, including fairy-tale palaces and sandy beach landscapes. The area is characterized by towering peaks, each unique in shape and form, with the “Sea Palace” Taiping Palace nestled among lush bamboo and pine trees. Hidden beneath sheer cliffs are strange caves and fascinating rock formations. Yangkou Beach is expansive, with fine sand and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal seaside bathing spot.
This area is also famous for its sunrise views. Visitors can witness the breathtaking spectacle known as “Lion Peak Welcoming the Sun” from the summit of the well-known Shizi Peak. Below, the “Lion Ridge Clouds” provides a captivating view of the surrounding landscape. For a unique perspective, tourists can take the Yangkou Cable Car to marvel at the majestic “Shou” Peak and enjoy the vastness where sea and sky meet.
The Qipan Stone Scenic Area (棋盘石景区) is famous for its spectacular mountain and sea scenery, as well as its deep, tranquil forests. Located on the eastern foothills of Laoshan, it is bordered by towering giants on the west and the vast ocean on the east. Key attractions in this area include the natural rock formation of Qipan Stone, the natural cave of Narayana Cave, and the highest Taoist temple on Laoshan, Mingdao Temple, as well as Huayan Temple, the most important Buddhist monastery in the region.
Travel Information about Yangkou and Qipan Stone Scenic Area
Tickets and Opening Hours
Cable Car: One-way fare is 35 yuan; round-trip fare is 60 yuan.
Taiping Palace: Entrance fee is 5 yuan.
Opening Hours:
- Peak Season: 06:00 – 19:00
- Off-Peak Season: 07:00 – 17:00
Best Time to Visit
The area is suitable for visits year-round, with the best time being from April to October.
Access to the Scenic Area
Location: The Yangkou Scenic Area is located in the eastern part of Laoshan Mountain.
Transportation: Visitors can take a bus to Yangkou or Liuqing and then transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus to reach Qipan Stone. Alternatively, take bus routes 109, 110, 383, 615, or 616 to the Laoshan (Yangkou) Visitor Service Center.
Attraction Ratings
- Leisure: ★★★★★
- Cultural: ★★★★
- Beautiful: ★★★
- Romantic: ★★★
- Unique: ★★★
- Exciting: ★★
Highlights of Yangkou and Qipan Stone Scenic Area
Taiping Palace
Taiping Palace is nestled against the mountains and faces the sea, making it one of the oldest documented Taoist temples in Laoshan. Outside the palace, two ancient pine trees flank the path, each over 300 years old and recognized as “longevity trees” among the red pines of Laoshan. Next to these ancient pines, there are two large stones, one inscribed with the phrase “疑似幻境” (Suspected Illusion) and the other bearing the inscription “双石长松” (Double Stones Long Pines).
The entire structure of Taiping Palace is shaped like the Chinese character “品” (pin), consisting of a central hall and two side halls. Inside the western side hall, there is a stone resembling a dragon coiled in sleep, known as “眠龙石” (Sleeping Dragon Stone). Beneath this stone lies a well named “龙涎” (Dragon’s Saliva). In the eastern courtyard, the bell tower features an eight-trigram bronze bell inscribed with the phrase “国泰民安” (National Prosperity and Peace). This phrase represents the “four seasons” and the “eight festivals,” corresponding to the eight trigrams. Historically, priests in the palace would strike the bell according to the seasons in relation to the corresponding “eight festivals,” a unique practice of Taiping Palace.
Youlong Cave
Youlong Cave is located a short distance west along the rear wall of Taiping Palace, where you will find a large circular stone supported by two other massive stones, forming a natural cave. This spacious cave can accommodate over 20 people and features an altar dedicated to Wang Chongyang, the founder of the Quanzhen sect of Taoism, along with his seven disciples. Historically, before the Ming Dynasty, the cave was dedicated to Laozi, which is why it was also referred to as “Laojun Cave.”
This site is ideal for watching the sunrise over the sea and has long been a favorite spot for poets and writers seeking inspiration. If you find yourself there on a foggy morning when the clouds are still lingering, you can witness an enchanting scene: from a distance, Lion Peak appears to be a lion poised to leap, its paws raised as it lets out a roar towards the sky amidst the rolling waves of cloud. This breathtaking sight is known as “Lion Ridge Horizontal Clouds” and is considered one of the “Twelve Famous Scenes of Laoshan.” The top of Lion Peak and its surrounding rock walls also feature inscriptions of ancient poems from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, adding to the site’s cultural and aesthetic value.
Mitian Cave
Mitian Cave is formed by a series of massive stones stacked between two towering cliffs, creating an appearance that seems artificial, yet is entirely natural—a remarkable cave that rises from the ground up. What makes Mitian Cave unique is its five distinct levels, with winding paths that are both peculiar and thrilling, offering an experience that combines the strange, the mysterious, the perilous, and the entertaining.
Once you enter the cave, you must employ various skills such as crawling, climbing, and maneuvering, as it can be quite challenging to navigate. If you don’t possess these skills, you may find it difficult to exit after entering. The cave is relatively dark, so it is advisable to bring a flashlight to illuminate your way as you explore this natural wonder.
Qipan Stone
Qipan Stone is one of the most renowned symbolic stones in Laoshan Mountain. According to legend, it is said to be the chessboard left behind by the immortals of the South Pole and North Pole during their game, hence the name “Qipan Stone.” The area features steep peaks and towering boulders, making it an exceptional spot for hiking, enjoying the sea views, and admiring unique rock formations.
The “X” shape visible on the stone surface is believed to represent the orientation used in Taoist star worship practices. This remarkable landscape is one of the famed Twelve Scenic Spots of Laoshan, known as “Qipan Xian Yi.”
Huazang Gate
Huazang Gate is the entrance to Huayan Temple, accessible via Guanyin Square. This mountain gate is referred to as the “Huazang World Gate,” and passing through it is essential to enter the vast realm of Buddhism. The gate is adorned with intricate carvings of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, celestial beings, and the fierce Vajra warriors, creating a sacred and magnificent atmosphere.
At the top of the gate, a massive bronze lotus flower blooms outward, with petals extending in all directions. Each petal features a Buddha in different postures, vividly illustrating the idea that “one flower represents one world, and one leaf embodies one Buddha.” The middle section of the gate showcases the Ten Great Bodhisattvas, reflecting the Huayan School’s deep reverence for the number “ten,” which symbolizes completeness. Centrally positioned at the base of the gate is the Buddha Shakyamuni, flanked by the Bodhisattvas Manjushri and Samantabhadra, collectively known as the “Three Saints of Huayan.”
Huayan Temple
Huayan Temple, originally known as “Huayan An” or “Huayan Zen Temple,” is situated in a picturesque location surrounded by mountains on three sides and facing the sea to the east. Its ancient elegance and majestic presence make it one of the largest Buddhist halls in Laoshan.
The typical tour route includes Guanyin Square, the Mountain Gate, the Lotus Road, the Pagoda Courtyard, and finally the Huayan Temple itself, culminating in a visit to the Narayan Cave. The entire tour takes approximately two hours. As a central part of the Liqing and Yangkou sightseeing route, many visitors choose to combine their visit to Huayan Temple with nearby attractions like Qipan Stone or the Taiqing Scenic Area.
For those with a tighter schedule, it’s advisable to return along the same path after visiting Huayan Temple, which takes about 40 minutes round trip. If time allows, visitors can continue their ascent to the Narayan Cave for additional exploration.
Pagoda Courtyard
The Pagoda Courtyard features the stupa of the temple’s first abbot, Master Cizhan, and the second abbot, Master Shanhe. Master Shanhe, known by his secular name Yu Qi, was the founder of the Praying Mantis style of martial arts.
Atop the Cizhan stupa, there stands a pine tree that is over 300 years old, adding to the site’s historical significance. In front of the Pagoda Courtyard is a common feature in Buddhist temples, the “Release Pool,” which reflects the Buddhist precept of non-violence and the prohibition against killing. Many Buddhist devotees frequently visit this area to practice the act of releasing life, demonstrating their commitment to compassion and mercy.
Narayan Cave
The Narayan Cave, located on the northern slope of Narayan Mountain, is said to have originally been a solid rock without any openings. According to legend, before achieving enlightenment, the Narayan Buddha practiced in this cave with his disciples. After attaining Buddhahood, he used his immense spiritual power to break open a circular hole at the top of the cave, ascending to the heavens and leaving behind this celestial opening.
In Sanskrit, “Narayan” translates to “diamond stronghold,” which aptly describes the cave’s granite formation. Monks often refer to this cave as the “second-largest cave in the world.” Its unique structure is documented in religious texts, making it one of the “Twelve Famous Scenic Spots of Laoshan.”
Different Routes to Explore Yangkou Scenic Area
Option 1: Metro and Public Bus Route
The first option involves taking the Metro Line 11 to Puli Station, from where you can take a bus to reach Yangkou. Here’s how to do it:
Metro to Puli Station: Take Metro Line 11 and alight at Puli Station (浦里站). Exit through Exit A, and walk approximately 300 meters to Puli Bus Station (浦里公交站).
Bus to Yangkou: At the bus station, board the 620 or 926 Bus, and alight at the Yangkou Station (仰口站). On regular days, the ride takes around 20 minutes, but it may take longer during public holidays due to traffic. After alighting, walk for about 500 meters to reach the entrance of the Yangkou Scenic Area.
Cable Car Option: Once at the entrance, you can purchase a cable car ticket and take the cable car to explore the area. The cable car will take you up, but you’ll still need to walk for about 15 minutes to reach Mitian Cave (觅天洞) and Tianyuan (天苑). It’s highly recommended to hike up to the top for panoramic views of both the mountains and the sea.
Hiking Option: If you prefer hiking, you can walk both up and down the mountain. Depending on your fitness level, three hours is usually enough to complete the hike.
Visit Yangkou Beach: After finishing your mountain exploration, head down to Yangkou Beach (仰口沙滩) for a relaxing time. The beach is perfect for a peaceful stroll or a swim.
Return Journey: After enjoying the beach, board the 618 Bus—known for its stunning sea views. This bus route has several scenic stops, including:
- Diao Long Zui North (雕龙嘴北), which has a quiet and clean beach called Quanxin River Beach.
- Qingshan South / Qingshan Station, where you can visit the beautiful Qingshan Fishing Village.
Please note that during holidays, the 618 bus may get full, and you may have difficulty getting on at some stops. If you don’t plan to stop along the way, it’s best to stay on the bus until the final destination.
Final Return: At the end of the 618 bus route, at Yakou, walk for about five minutes towards the Taiqing Palace Cable Car to catch the Laoshan Tourist Bus back to Dahedong (大河东). From here, you can take Metro Line 4 back to the city center.
Option 2: Metro and Sightseeing Bus Route
For those who prefer a more direct approach, the second option involves taking the Metro Line 4 to Dahedong Station and then catching a bus to the scenic area. Here’s the step-by-step guide:
Metro to Dahedong Station: Take Metro Line 4 to Dahedong Station (大河东站). On weekends and holidays, the last stop of Metro Line 4 goes to Zhangcun Station (张村), so if you’re traveling during these times, remain on the train until the end of the line. Upon arrival, exit from Exit A, and walk 50 meters to the Laoshan Tourist Service Center (崂山游客服务中心).
Board the Bus to Taiqing Palace: At the tourist center, locate the ticket check area for the Taiqing Palace direction (which is also the same for Yangkou). Ticket sales begin at 7:30 AM, and the bus departs as soon as it fills up. The bus makes a brief stop at Bashui River (八水河), but don’t get off at this stop.
Arrive at Taiqing Palace: After approximately 15 minutes, you’ll reach Taiqing Palace, where you can explore the square and the wooden pavilion. From here, a scenic bus heads towards Yakou, which takes about 5–6 minutes. After reaching Yakou, head towards the Qingshan Fishing Village Archway, where you can board a bus directly to the Yangkou Scenic Area.
Explore Yangkou Scenic Area: Once you reach Yangkou, hike up to the mountain, enjoy the views, and then descend to Yangkou Beach for a relaxing visit.
Return Journey: After spending time at the beach, return via the Laoshan Tourist Bus back to Dahedong. Alternatively, you can take buses 620 or 926 from Yangkou Station back to Puli
Options 3: Scenic Coastal Bus 618
After completing your hike, you also have the option to enjoy the scenic coastal drive. From the Yangkou Scenic Area, head back to the bus drop-off point and board Bus 618 (环海公路618), which follows a breathtaking coastal route along Laoshan’s shoreline. This bus travels from Yangkou to Yakou (垭口), passing through several picturesque spots, including: Huayan Temple (华严寺) and Qingshan Fishing Village (青山渔村).
Along the route, you can get off at any of these scenic stops to take photos and enjoy the views. The bus is flexible, so you can hop off and explore before continuing your journey. If you prefer the best views, try sitting on the left side of the bus during the ride from Yangkou to Yakou, as it offers some of the most scenic perspectives.
Option 4: Combine Yangkou and Huayan Scenic Areas
To begin the hike, you can take direct transportation from the city center to Yangkou Visitor Center . The route is relatively simple and straightforward, and the climb itself is not too steep. Once you complete the ascent, you can enjoy a rewarding view of the coastline before descending to head toward Huayan Scenic Area.
The Huayan area is relatively easy to navigate as well. The route from Huayan Temple (华岩寺) to Naluoyan Cave (那罗延) is longer and more strenuous than expected, so it’s a bit more challenging. After exploring the area, you can descend and take a tourist bus to Yakou, where you can switch buses. If time permits, you can visit the nearby Qingshan Fishing Village (青山渔村).
From Yakou, walk about 300 meters west to catch a bus heading toward Dahedong 大河东 (or Ba Shui River 八水河). This bus offers a great view of the most beautiful coastal section of Laoshan, and the journey is comfortable with air conditioning, unlike the 618 bus, which can be quite crowded. Upon reaching Dahedong, you can board the subway (Line 4) to return to the city.