Chinatodo
In Jinan, there's a dish that can make any diet plan collapse instantly—Ba Zi Rou (把子肉 bǎ zi ròu). This thick-cut, soy-braised pork belly, glistening with rich sauce, is the ultimate comfort food for locals. Whether paired with congee for breakfast, rice for lunch, or enjoyed as a late-night snack, the moment the savory juices soak into the rice, all resolutions to eat light vanish. What is Ba Zi Rou? Ba Zi Rou is not your average braised pork—it's Jinan's version of Chinese-style "pork belly rice": Cut: Thick strips of…
When travelers think of Shandong cuisine, sweet and sour pork or Peking duck often come to mind. But there's a hidden gem in this coastal province that food lovers are missing - Su Guo (酥锅 sū guō), a slow-cooked masterpiece that embodies the soul of Shandong home cooking. What Makes Su Guo Special? Imagine walking into a Shandong grandmother's kitchen during winter. The rich aroma of vinegar, soy sauce, and spices fills the air as a giant pot simmers for hours. That's Su Guo - a traditional "everything but the…
If you've ever tried Chinese food abroad, chances are you've encountered Sweet and Sour Pork Tenderloin (糖醋里脊 táng cù lǐ jǐ) . Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and coated in a glossy, tangy-sweet sauce—this dish is a global favorite. But did you know its roots trace back to Shandong cuisine (Lu Cai), one of China’s oldest culinary traditions? Born in Shandong, a coastal province famed for its bold flavors and vinegar-based sauces, Tangcu Liji (Sweet and Sour Pork Tenderloin) originally featured pork tenderloin fried to golden perfection and tossed in…
A Thousand-Year Hidden Gem in the Mountains—More Tranquil Than Lingyan Temple, and Best of All, Free! When it comes to ancient temples in Jinan (济南 jǐ nán), most people think of the bustling incense fires of Qianfo Mountain (千佛山 qiān fó shān) or the renowned Lingyan Temple (灵岩寺 líng yán sì). Yet, deep in Tongming Mountain (通明山 tōng míng shān) in Changqing District (长清区 cháng qīng qū) lies a quieter, more understated thousand-year-old monastery—Yijing Temple (义净寺 yì jìng sì). Here, there are no crowds of tourists, no commercialized incense stalls—only…
Dezhou Braised Chicken (德州扒鸡 dé zhōu pá jī), One of China's "Four Great Chickens" (alongside DaoKou, Fuliji and Goubangzi varieties), this Shandong delicacy is famed for its "fall-off-the-bone tenderness" and complex five-spice aroma. Since the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), it has evolved from railway station snack to nationally-protected cultural heritage. Historical Journey: From Railway Staple to Cultural Icon Origins: First created during Kangxi Era (1661-1722) by "Baolanzhai" restaurant, perfected by "Deshunzhai" in 1890s Railway Boom: Became iconic travel food after 1912 when Jinpu Railway connected Beijing-Shanghai via Dezhou UNESCO Recognition: Listed…
Tai'an snacks perfectly blend the hearty flavors of Shandong cuisine with the rustic essence of Mount Tai's wilderness. Each bite carries the warmth of local life, and every delicacy embodies the culinary wisdom of Tai'an people. 1. Taishan Crispy Pancake (泰山煎饼 Tàishān jiānbing) Highlights: Ultra-thin pancakes made from corn, millet or sorghum - crispy when fresh, chewy when stored Traditionally rolled with scallions and sweet bean sauce, now with modern fillings like eggs or spicy strips A hiker's staple sold warm along Mount Tai trails 2. Taishan Tofu Banquet (泰山豆腐宴…
A signature dish of Shandong's mountainous heartland, Taian Dry-Fried Chicken (泰安干炒鸡 Tài'ān Gàn Chǎo Jī) stands out from typical "saucy" stir-fried chicken with its bold, dry texture and numbing-spicy kick. Unlike the broth-heavy Linyi-style chicken, this version is wok-charred to crispy perfection, with even the bones infused with flavor—best enjoyed with an ice-cold Taishan Beer (泰山啤酒 Tàishān Píjiǔ), the local brew that cuts through the spice and enhances the dish's smoky depth! What Makes Taian Dry-Fried Chicken Unique? No-Sauce, All Crisp – Unlike Linyi’s saucy braised chicken, this dish is…
Nestled at the northern foot of Mount Tai in Wande Town, Changqing District, Lingyan Temple (灵岩寺 língyán sì) stands as one of China's Four Great Ancient Temples (alongside Guoqing Temple in Zhejiang, Qixia Temple in Nanjing, and Yuquan Temple in Hubei). Founded during the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317-420 AD), this sacred site blends ancient architecture, stone carvings, mountain scenery, and Zen philosophy, offering a serene escape for history and nature lovers. Transport Guide By Car Route: From downtown Jinan, take G3 Beijing-Taiwan Expressway to Wande Exit, then follow National Highway…
Towering over Shandong Province, Mount Tai (泰山 Tài Shān) is more than a mountain—it is an altar for imperial sacrifices, a sanctuary of Confucian wisdom, and the spiritual benchmark of Chinese civilization. As the "Chief of the Five Sacred Mountains" (五岳之首 Wǔyuè zhī Shǒu), its every stone tablet bears the legacy of emperors, and every step echoes Confucius’ revelation: "Ascend Mount Tai, and the world seems small." The Emperor’s Divine Path, The Sage’s Classroom 1. Imperial Fengshan Ceremonies (封禅大典 Fēngshàn Dàdiǎn) 72 emperors, from Qin Shi Huang (秦始皇 Qín Shǐhuáng) to…
This "Water City of the North," embraced by Dongchang Lake (东昌湖 dōngchāng hú), hides not only the poetic charm of "a city within a lake, a lake within a city" but also preserves the fusion of northern and southern tastes from the canal era in its street food. The crackling of morning griddles, the aroma of smoked chickens at noon, the sizzle of night market fryers—here, eating is the most authentic way to explore the city. The Breakfast Scene at Dawn 1. Shazhen Guāda (沙镇呱嗒 shā zhèn guā da)—Liaocheng's "Chinese…
If you're tired of overcrowded tourist hotspots and crave a quiet town blending southern water-town charm with northern historical heritage, Liaocheng (聊城 Liáochéng) in Shandong will surprise you. Dubbed the "Water City of the North," this town cradled by Dongchang Lake (东昌湖 dōngchāng hú) boasts a unique "city within a lake, lake within a city" layout, offering a rare watery landscape in the north. How to Get There From Jinan (济南 jǐnán): High-speed train: ~1 hour Regular train: ~2 hours Bus: ~2 hours Ideal For: Slow travelers, those interested in…
Jinan, a thousand-year-old city nourished by springs, is renowned as the "Spring City." With its "households blessed by springs and willows," the famed writer Lao She once praised: "Without these springs, Jinan would lose half its beauty." If you're planning a short stay, follow this three-day itinerary to experience the poetic charm of "lotus on four sides, willows on three, a city embraced by hills and lakes." Day 1: Spring Culture Walk – Exploring the "72 Famous Springs"Route: Baotu Spring (趵突泉, Bàotū Quán) → Five Dragons Pool (五龙潭, Wǔlóng Tán) → Moat Cruise…
Explore the lesser-known wonders of Jinan’s Southern Mountains, where ancient history, serene temples, and breathtaking nature converge. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences in China. Lingyan Temple (灵岩寺 líng yán sì)A 1,600-year-old Buddhist temple complex nestled in pine forests. Don’t miss the vivid Song Dynasty clay sculptures in the Thousand Buddha Hall.Why Visit: Witness UNESCO-tentative “Oriental Sculpture Masterpieces” and wander among ancient stupas. A spiritual retreat blending art, history, and misty mountain vistas. Simen Pagoda (四门塔 sì mén tǎ)One of China’s oldest stone pagodas, built in the Sui Dynasty…
From Confucian-inspired tofu to explosive wok flavors, discover the 10 must-try Shandong dishes. Local tips, cultural stories, and how to savor them like a pro! 1. Sweet & Sour Yellow River Carp (糖醋鲤鱼 táng cù lǐ yú) Why Try? A culinary icon: golden-fried carp arched like a dragon, glazed with a tangy vinegar sauce (no ketchup!). Locals eat the crispy tail first for prosperity.Pro Tip: Ask for "live carp with old-style vinegar glaze" at traditional Lu cuisine restaurants in Jinan.Cultural Hook: Served at imperial banquets for centuries as a symbol…
Under the ancient city walls, springs flow gently.Light boats drift on the lake, rippling the spring water.This is the Jinan described by Lao She, and it's also the spring season of lush grass and singing birds. City Walk Route: Baotu Spring → Wulongtan (Five Dragons Pool) → Quancheng Square → Heihu Spring (Black Tiger Spring) → Qifeng Bridge → Qushuiting Street → Liberation Pavilion → Daming Lake
Only after visiting Jinan did I realize that it holds countless surprises and romance. Take this guide and immerse yourself in the Spring City! Attractions Overview Historical and Cultural Sites Baotu Spring: As the symbol of Jinan, the "No. 1 Spring under Heaven" lives up to its reputation. The clear spring water continuously gushes, surrounded by pavilions and towers, offering picturesque scenery at every step, as if traveling back to ancient times. Thousand Buddha Mountain: The mountain is home to numerous historical sites, and the Ten Thousand Buddha Cave gathers the essence…
My Top Three Hidden Gems for Flower Viewing in Jinan! Wulongtan (Five Dragons Pool) Recommended Viewing Time: Late March, Mid-April Late March: Cherry blossoms and crabapples bloom in succession. The crabapples are at their best during this time (if you want to see cherry blossoms, you can visit in mid-to-late March when they bloom slightly earlier). In addition to the blooming flowers, you can also enjoy the spring scenery reflected in the clear spring water, with pink flowers and green water creating a unique atmosphere. Mid-April: The purple cuckoo flowers quietly bloom at…
This is one of Jinan's most famous spots for capturing the juxtaposition of ancient and modern architecture. You can shoot from a higher vantage point or directly by the lakeside . Although Chaoran Tower is also a modern construction, rather than strictly focusing on the contrast between old and new, I prefer to emphasize the fusion of two architectural styles and urban landscapes, offering a breathtaking perspective of the city.
No wonder Shandong belongs to East China; it’s because of Jinan. The water here is clearer and more crystal-like than that of Jiangnan, truly deserving its reputation as the pinnacle of the "Little Jiangnan of the North." Such beauty in Jinan can only be rivaled by Jiangnan on a rainy day. It’s hard to imagine that in Shandong, where people hold green onions in one hand and pancakes in the other, there exists such graceful scenery. Just as Jinan gave birth to the bold and heroic Xin Qiji, who wrote,…
Introduction to Jinan Jinan, known as the "Spring City," is famous for its numerous springs, including the renowned "Seventy-Two Famous Springs." It is celebrated for its picturesque scenery, often described as "surrounded by lotus flowers on four sides, willows on three sides, with a city of mountains and half a city of lakes." As a national historical and cultural city and one of the first batch of China's outstanding tourist cities, Jinan is also one of the birthplaces of the prehistoric Longshan culture. It is a rare city that integrates…