Laoshan Scenic Area is located in Laoshan District, Qingdao City, Shandong Province. As a national 5A-level tourist attraction and national scenic area, it covers 446 square kilometers with its main peak, Jufeng, standing at 1,132.7 meters - the highest coastal mountain in China, renowned as the "Number One Mountain on the Sea". Combining spectacular sea-mountain views, Taoist culture, and tea culture, it's a landmark attraction of Qingdao.
History and Culture
With profound historical and cultural heritage, Laoshan is one of the birthplaces of Taoism in China. Since the Qin and Han dynasties, it has been a retreat for alchemists, reaching its peak in the Song Dynasty with the saying "Nine Palaces, Eight Temples, and Seventy-two Nunneries". Taoist temples like Taiqing Palace, Shangqing Palace, and Taiping Palace remain well-preserved.
Laoshan's Taoist culture has a long history, with famous Taoists like Qiu Chuji and Zhang Sanfeng having practiced here. Laoshan Taoist music is listed as national intangible cultural heritage.
Laoshan is also China's northernmost tea-producing region, with Laoshan green tea having a thousand-year history, famous for its unique "pea aroma". Laoshan mineral water enjoys worldwide reputation.
Main Attractions
Jufeng (Giant Peak) Area
At 1,132.7 meters, Jufeng is Laoshan's highest peak, featuring spectacular rock formations like Lingqi Peak and Wuzhi Peak. The summit offers panoramic views of Qingdao and the Yellow Sea, making it perfect for sunrise and sea-of-clouds viewing.
Taiqing Palace
Laoshan's oldest and largest Taoist temple, originally built in 140 BC (Western Han Dynasty), with most existing structures dating to the Ming Dynasty. With ancient trees and numerous steles, its main buildings include Three Officials Hall, Three Pure Ones Hall, and Three Sovereigns Hall.
Beijiushui (North Nine Waters)
Famous for mountain-water scenery, named after its nine-bend stream. Connected pools and waterfalls with peculiar peaks like Chaoyin Waterfall and Diangang Bay make it a cool summer retreat.
Yangkou Area
Known for sea-mountain wonders including Taiping Palace, Lion Peak, and Sheep Stone. Yangkou Bay's gentle slope and clear water make it one of Qingdao's famous bathing beaches.
Huayan Temple
Laoshan's only surviving Buddhist temple, first built in Northern Wei Dynasty and rebuilt in Qing Dynasty. It houses precious Buddhist relics, with natural wonders like Naroyan Cave nearby.
Cuisine
Laoshan Green Tea
China's northernmost tea, known for thick leaves, strong flavor, durability for multiple infusions, and unique pea-like aroma - a Qingdao specialty.
Laoshan Mineral Water
Sourced from Laoshan granite fissures, this crisp, sweet water rich in minerals is called "magic water" and exported worldwide.
Laoshan Seafood
Abundant coastal seafood like abalone, sea cucumber, prawns, and scallops prepared in diverse ways showcase Qingdao's delicious marine products.
Ticket Information
Separate tickets for different areas: Jufeng ¥120, Taiqing ¥130, Yangkou ¥90, Beijiushui ¥65. Combo ticket ¥180 (including shuttle bus). Seniors over 60 and students get half-price with valid ID; children under 1.4m free. Opening hours: 7:00-18:00 (extended to 19:00 in peak season).
Recommended Routes
Classic one-day route: Taiqing Palace → Bashui River → Longtan Waterfall → Shangqing Palace → Mingxia Cave → cable car to Jufeng. Combines Taoist culture with sea-mountain scenery.
Leisurely one-day route: Yangkou Area → Taiping Palace → Lion Peak → Yangkou Beach. Ideal for relaxed touring and seaside leisure.
Transportation
- Bus: Take city buses 104, 304, or 113 from downtown Qingdao
- Metro: Line 11 to Beijiushui or Miaoshi Station for corresponding areas
- Drive: From downtown via Hong Kong East Road and Laoshan Road with parking at main entrances
- Shuttle: Sightseeing buses connect major attractions within the area
Must-See Attractions
- Jufeng: Summit China's highest coastal mountain for breathtaking views
- Taiqing Palace: Experience millennia-old Taoist culture and architecture
- Beijiushui: Stroll through refreshing mountain-water landscapes
- Yangkou Beach: Unique seaside scenery with mountain backdrop
- Huayan Temple: Explore Buddhist culture and Naroyan Cave wonder
Travel Tips
- Best visiting season April-November, especially May and October
- Wear comfortable anti-slip shoes for steep sections
- Sun protection in summer, windproof clothing in winter
- Plan routes in advance due to large area and manage energy wisely
- Try Laoshan green tea and mineral water as local specialties
Important Notes
- No smoking in the area for fire safety
- Protect cultural relics - no marking on structures
- Follow safety rules and avoid restricted areas
- Observe tide changes and safety notices when by the sea
- Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds in peak seasons