Chinatodo
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 shāzhèn guāda)—Liaocheng's "Chinese Croissant"At six…
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…
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 (Tangcu Liyu 糖醋鲤鱼) 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 of perseverance.…
From Shandong’s imperial feasts to Sichuan’s fiery thrill, discover China’s 4 & 8 Great Cuisines! Learn how history and geography created these iconic flavors, plus must-try dishes worldwide. Introduction: A Culinary Empire in One Nation Imagine combining the boldness of Italian pasta, the refinement of French sauces, and the spice of Mexican street food—all within one country. That’s China’s culinary universe! The Four Great Cuisines and Eight Great Cuisines are your gateway to understanding how China’s mountains, rivers, and dynasties shaped its iconic dishes. Let’s feast on history! Part 1:…
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…
Top1 Baotu Spring A scene straight out of a Chinese textbook! The best time to see the three streams is during the rainy season, and the 40 yuan ticket is worth it. The banana trees at the Li Qingzhao Memorial Hall are very photogenic. Hidden tip: Use an empty bottle to collect drinkable spring water (it's safe to drink!). Top2 Daming Lake The moment Chaoran Tower lights up at 19:10 is breathtaking! Arrive 20 minutes early to secure a good spot. Recommended: Take a painted boat ride on the lake (30 yuan) and listen…
Itinerary Day 1: Baotu Spring - Quancheng Square - Black Tiger Spring - Liberation Pavilion - Kuanhouli Baotu Spring: A iconic landmark of Jinan, the spring water steams in winter, clear and vibrant with fish. The site includes cultural relics like the Li Qingzhao Memorial. Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours. Quancheng Square: A large central square in Jinan, perfect for enjoying the warm lights and relaxed atmosphere in winter. Ideal for night views. Suggested visit time: 0.5 hours. Black Tiger Spring: One of Jinan's four famous springs, known for its…