Things to do & places to visit in Shandong, China

Shandong #12 destination in China 2023. The average rating score is 4.22 based on 18.8k traveler reviews, of 1.165 attractions. Timezone: Asia/Shanghai, current date and time: Tuesday, April 30, 2024, 0:30.

Shandong Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in April

71°F - 45°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Moderately chilly and breezy

Feels like

15%

Chance of rain

53.0 millimeters

Amount

15.2 mph

Wind speed

47%

Humidity

13.1

Daylight length

5:39 AM

Sunrise

6:44 PM

Sunset

58%

Cloud cover

Sweater

What to wear

Top things to do (22)

Top destinations in Shandong 100

See more 88 destinations »

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

4.5 Mount Tai (1.696 reviews)
- In Person
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Mountains

A symbol of the Chinese Spirit and the royal object of worship, Mount Tai has many spectacular scenic and historic sites. See more..
4.5 Laoshan Scenic Area (1.056 reviews)
- Busy Day at Laoshan
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Bodies of Water • Mountains • Forests

One of China's most celebrated scenic areas, Laoshan presents a panorama of mountains, cliffs, waterfalls and temples. See more..
4.5 Qingdao Beer Museum (901 reviews)
- Great exhibition and comes with great beers!
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM Speciality Museums

Great range of exhibits showcasing the history of the establishment of Tsingtao beer. Easy to get to via Subway Line 2 station Taidong. Get out at exit A, turn left then left again into Dengzhou Road walk 200-300m. We went in January on a weekday and there were hardly anyone. No queues, no crowds. The basic entry was RMB50 pp, RMB25 for students or seniors (69-69yo, 70+ is free). The entry fee comes with two beers (two beers applies for student entries!!). See more..
4.5 Badaguan Scenic Resort (742 reviews)
- Lovely area to stroll around
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks

I think some people seem to misunderstand what this area is, so let me be clear: it is a few residential streets. That's it. The Chinese name for the area ('scenic resort') is perhaps misleading to tourists from overseas. The shady streets, quiet atmosphere and the German architecture is what makes this area lovely to wander around and take a few photos. There are a couple of cafe/restaurants though, including the lovely Garden Cafe (pictured), and a fun succulent museum if you're a plant-lover. See more..
4.5 Beijiushui River Laoshan (205 reviews)
- Multiple Waterfalls with a Great Hike
Bodies of Water

The Beijiushui River is also labeled "Laoshan Beijiushui (West Gate) on some maps. This is one of the northern park entrances to the beautiful Loashan Mountain park. A ride from downtown Qingdao will take about 40 minutes. Tickets are bought at the entrance, then buses will take you about 1-2 km into the park to the beginning of the trails. The trails are extremely well built with either wood or chiseled rock. Many sellers will greet you around the entrance, but past them you will find a great view of the river valley full of large sun-washed boulders and rushing water. There remains some garbage on the trail as locals still need to learn to manage their own trash. The hike will take 3-4 hours to enjoy the various water pools at various levels. the Lion Waterfall is a must see. The hike up can be quite tiring due to the many steps, but well worth the hike. See more..
4.5 Taishan East Road (199 reviews)
- A must do
Hiking Trails

6,660 steps to the top - we entered the annual race on 5 September this year along with over 7,000 others as we were already there paddling a Dragonboat for Australia on Lake Dong Ping the day before. It is not the easiest of climbs to the top but if you are fit you will manage the 7.5klm hike.

There are of course the options to walk 5klm and then take the cable car or to take the bus and then the cable car. Whatever option there will still be a distance to walk.

Well worth the trek as we passed beautiful scenery and temples along the way, and no need to carry provisions as there are little kiosks dotted along the way, but be prepared to pay about 10 times over the odds!

Highly recommendable. See more..
4.5 Qingdao Site Museum of the Former German Governor's Residence (180 reviews)
- Left by the German
Speciality Museums

As the governing body, German built this residence for the governor while staying in Qingdao, left their European influence behind this seaport city. Just looking from the exterior of the building and the garden, one may easily think that it's somewhere in Europe. The interior design is also admirable and pretty throughout. See more..
4.5 TAIAN Fantawild Adventure (152 reviews)
- A fun way to spend a day in Taian
Amusement & Theme Parks

This is a large, new theme park in Taian and has a great selection of roller coaster rides (including a splash mountain), amazing 4/5D cinema experiences and some good science and nature educational shows See more..
4.5 Taishan Geological Park (150 reviews)
- Superlative
National Parks

Words cannot describe this place and you have to see it for yourself. It is the "Number One" mountain and one of the holiest. Be careful of strong winds near the summit as it can blow you off your feet. See more..
4.5 Yantai Hill (140 reviews)
- Very picturesque
Tuesday: 7:30 AM - 6:30 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks

The beach and Yantai Hill are the major attraction of the city. We enjoyed the hilltop views of the sea and the sloped mountain terrain. See more..
4.5 Weihai International Bathing Beach (137 reviews)
- Great beach and helpful people
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Beaches

The overall atmosphere is great. The beach is lovely and the people are friendly. They have cold beverages and affordable places to keep your things. There are many places to rent umbrellas, boats and inflatables. Great place for a vacation. See more..
4.5 Heihu Spring (121 reviews)
- Fun!
Hot Springs & Geysers

This is really a fun place to visit in Jinan. It is located in the southern edge of the old city and it's free entry. It is both very active if one wants to or peace and calm in certain areas, making this a place suitable for all. Locals come for their water supply with jars and jugs in tow. Some of them came for their morning walks or exercise. The views are beautiful whichever way you look. The moat and the springs make this spot a comfortable walk even in the hot summer days. See more..
4.5 Ocean Aquarium of Penglai (102 reviews)
- It was perfect.
Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Aquariums

I like everything. I can recommend to spend minimally whole day in Ocean aquarium. It was so cute and beautifull. See more..
4.5 Qingdao XiaoYushan Park (98 reviews)
- Nice and Quiet
Tuesday: 7:26 AM - 6:28 PM Mountains • Parks

It seemed like we were the only ones there on the day we visited. This is an excellent spot to see Qingdao from higher up. We did climb up to the top of the pagoda and it was a wonderful view of the older section of the city. With fewer visitors one can really enjoy the serenity and sight. See more..
4.5 Signal Hill Park (91 reviews)
- Great Views of the German Concession!
Tuesday: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM Parks

Cost to enter is 15 yuan and is worth a stop if you are in the area for the fantastic views. There are many attractions nearby like the German residence, Cathedral and the German Concession area. The hike to the top is easy but slippery in some parts so bring good shoes. The floor rotates at the top of the tower and can be a little disorientating. Make sure you keep your tickets handy when going into the tower or else you'll have to pay extra. Plan to spend an hour here. See more..
4.5 Northern Foot of Tai Mountain (67 reviews)
- Don't be lazy, walk up the mountain's 6,666 stairs!
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Mountains

Simply put, it was exhausting. However, after I reached the top of the mountain I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment! After 5 hours of walking I reached the top and made a wish. If it comes true then I guess I'll be returning! Just 70KM south of Jinan City, it's worth the day to climb. After, treat yourself to a nice massage. Your legs will thank you. For the individuals who do not want to climb 1545 meters, there is a gondola that runs up and down. RMB100/person each way. Also, don't be fooled into carrying lots of water with you. It's too heavy and you can buy it along the way. Wear a good pair of shoes--I wore Sperry Topsiders thinking it wouldn't be an issue. It was tough, but I survived. Happy climbing! See more..
4.0 Baotu Spring Park (888 reviews)
- An easy recommendation
Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Parks

An easy walk from Spring City Square and Daming Lake, this tranquil park offers rare glimpses of large spring sources. The water is noticeably clear with plenty of koi fish for amusement. My Chinese wife purchased the tickets with her phone for only ¥20. This was by far the best of similar destinations, including our recent trip to Suzhou. During the Summer, you can opt to take a water taxi from the park "harbor" for a 10 - ¥60 upcharge. See more..
4.0 Zhanqiao Pier (873 reviews)
- Iconic
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Piers & Boardwalks

This 440 meter (1,440ft) strip that stretches into the sea was built in 1891 and was the first wharf in Qingdao. See more..
4.0 May Fourth Square (861 reviews)
- Best Light Show
Points of Interest & Landmarks

The square didn't seem anything special during the day but it's a totally different story at night. I found this the best light show that I have seen anywhere. It was just incredible with all the buildings in the area lit up with ever changing colors. There were a lot of people but it was manageable. The promenade was active and it was just fun being a part of the city life. See more..
4.0 Daming Lake (632 reviews)
- Huge!
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Bodies of Water • Historic Walking Areas • Parks

This has to be the must-visit place when in Jinan. We only spent a couple of hours walking around the lake and just covered about half of this whole place. Absolutely beautiful all around! Seemed like this lake area took up half of the old city surrounded by the moat. See more..
4.0 Qingdao Catholic Church (423 reviews)
- Bavarian architecture in original glory
Tuesday: 7:55 AM - 5:02 PM Religious Sites

Beautifully preserved Bavarian architecture. Large plaza which is great for wondering around and spending a bit of time to take in the surrounding. A contrast to the traditional Chinese cities. If you wander through the streets, you will see other colonial buildings from the German settlement past. We went on a weekday in January so there wasn’t much of a crowd. See more..
4.0 Polar Ocean World (278 reviews)
- Good visit
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Aquariums

Liked the HUGE display tanks and also the live performance. Able to spend 2-3 hours wandering around the good area. See more..
4.0 Qingdao Underwater World (274 reviews)
- Qingdao Underwater World
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Aquariums

World-class aquarium. One of the best underwater exhibitions I have seen. It boasts the world's largest water column made of a single see-through acrylic material. It rivals such famous spectacles as the ones in California, New Zealand and Atlanta. The zillions of fish and marine creatures of all sizes challenges the imagination. It's a great place to take the kids, young and old, especially the ones with a great deal of curiosity! See more..
4.0 Olympic Sailing Center (269 reviews)
- Must-go
Sports Complexes

This was the first spot we stopped at on our private tour of Shandong. Enjoyed a relaxing stroll along the oceanfront promenade even on a summer day. It just felt nice with the sea breeze and nicely designed piers. A pleasant visit indeed. See more..
4.0 Penglaige (252 reviews)
- Magnificent ancient Chinese building & awesome scenic views
Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Ancient Ruins

The Penglai Pavilion was built in the Northern Song Dynasty (AD 1601). It together with the Yellow Crane Tower, Yueyang Tower, and Tengwang Pavilion are known as the "Four Famous Buildings in China." See more..
4.0 Golden Beach (Huang Dao) (252 reviews)
- Interesting local beach destination
Beaches

This beach is recommended in the guide books. However, we follow the advise in lonely planet and took the ferry to HuangDao and then bus 1, but the bus route didn't ended at the beach and we had to take a taxi for a 5 min ride to the beach. It's far way more short and convenient if you take the ferry to Xuejiadao and then a short taxi ride to Golden beach (HuangDao ). Be aware of the restaurant at the beach, ask for prices when you order, we didn't and they charged us ridiculous prices for the food..:( See more..
4.0 Confucius Temple (243 reviews)
- As an educator
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Cemeteries

A grand complex of monuments and buildings in the hometown of the great philosopher and educator. See more..
4.0 Qianfoshan (235 reviews)
- A beautiful timeout from the busy city
Tuesday: 6:30 AM - 6:30 PM Mountains • Historic Walking Areas • Nature & Wildlife Areas

Love this place and have hiked several times to the top of the mountain. It’s a great place to explore and have some peace and quiet. See more..
4.0 Qingdao Beer Street (226 reviews)
- Great Place to eat after museum!
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks

I went to the museum early afternoon. It was hot so I enjoy another beer and food in a fun atmosphere, people watching and great food too. There was lots of restaurants to choose from. See more..
4.0 Qingdao Zhongshan Park (217 reviews)
- Shade and View
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Parks

Beautiful park with great views. Take the cable car ride. A wonderful way to spend a few hours in the city and you will meet many locals and their children. See more..