[2025 Binzhou Attraction] Travel Guide for Du Shoutian's Former Residence (Updated Aug)

Let's go! A treasure trove guide for a 3-day family trip to Binzhou with a 2000-yuan budget ✨ Folks, Binzhou, this city in northern Shandong, is like a pearl embedded along the Yellow River 🌟, boasting both rich historical culture and captivating natural scenery, making it a perfect destination for family trips 😍. Today, I'll share this meticulously planned, ultra-detailed guide with you~ 3-day ultra-detailed best itinerary for fun and play Day 1: Arrive in Binzhou - Wei Family Manor 🌅 Morning: Arrive in Binzhou and take transportation to Wei Family Manor 🚌. Admission is 40 yuan 💰. In the early morning, sunlight bathes this centuries-old manor, and stepping inside with your little one feels like embarking on a time-traveling adventure 🎈. 🍜 Noon: Dine at a restaurant near Wei Family Manor, trying Binzhou pot pancakes and sesame brittle candy, kicking off a culinary journey in Binzhou 🤤. Experience the unique flavors of local specialties. 🌆 Afternoon: Stroll through Wei Family Manor with your child. This manor is an outstanding example of ancient northern Chinese residential architecture, with clever layouts and rigorous structures. Visit the tall city walls to feel their once-formidable defenses. Enter the courtyard houses to admire exquisite wood, brick, and stone carvings, telling your child about past lifestyles to help them appreciate the weight of history. Then head to your booked hotel for check-in. Binzhou Guiyuan Hotel is recommended for its excellent location and comprehensive facilities, ensuring a comfortable rest after your adventures. 🥰 Evening: Explore the area around the hotel, enjoy Binzhou's night views, and rest early to recharge for the next day's activities ✨. Day 2: Sun Tzu's Art of War City - Mada Lake Wetland - Du Shoutian's Former Residence 🌅 Morning: Take transportation to Sun Tzu's Art of War City. Admission is 40 yuan 💰. The morning atmosphere here is solemn and serene, perfect for starting a journey to explore military wisdom with your child 🎈. 🍜 Noon: Dine at a restaurant near Sun Tzu's Art of War City, trying Zouping sour tofu and Wudi mountain roast chicken for a delicious lunch 🥘. 🌆 Afternoon: At Sun Tzu's Art of War City, visit various exhibition halls with your child. The site, themed around *The Art of War*, showcases military culture through diverse displays. See ancient weapons, learn about strategies and tactics, and share stories of Sun Tzu to spark your child's interest in history and culture. Next, head to Mada Lake Wetland, which is free 🆓. The scenic wetland is lush with aquatic plants. Walk along the lakeshore with your child, admire the lotuses, observe various waterbirds, and feel the vitality of nature. Finally, visit Du Shoutian's Former Residence, with admission at 30 yuan 💰. This residence is a typical official mansion from the Ming and Qing dynasties, featuring unique architectural styles. Explore the study, living rooms, and more with your child, learning about Du Shoutian's life and experiencing Confucian culture. 🥰 Evening: Enjoy local delicacies at a restaurant near Du Shoutian's Former Residence, then return to the hotel to reflect on the day's highlights. Day 3: Shell Levee Island and Wetland National Nature Reserve - Qinhuang River Park - Return Trip 🌅 Morning: Take transportation to Shell Levee Island and Wetland National Nature Reserve, which is free 🆓. The morning air here is fresh, ideal for a joyful nature adventure with your child 🎈. 🍜 Noon: Dine at a restaurant near the reserve, trying Binzhou sesame brittle candy and Yellow River carp for a tasty lunch 🥘. 🌆 Afternoon: At Shell Levee Island and Wetland National Nature Reserve, walk along the shell levees with your child. The shells here are piled high in various shapes. Your child can collect beautiful shells and learn about how the levees formed. Observe rare plants and birds by the wetland to marvel at nature's wonders. Then head to Qinhuang River Park, which is free 🆓. The park features stunning flower fields and clear rivers. Enjoy cycling or playing on the grass with your child for quality family time. Finally, prepare for your return trip, ending this unforgettable family journey with cherished memories of Binzhou 💕. 6 must-visit attractions and their highlights 1. Wei Family Manor - A time-traveling northern residence 🏯 - Highlights: 40-yuan admission, clever layout, exquisite architecture 🎊 - Activities: Stroll the manor, admire the three carving arts 🎈 2. Wei Family Manor City Walls - A historical testament to sturdy defenses 🛡️ - Highlights: Tall and thick, highly defensive 🎇 - Activities: Climb the walls, soak in the historical atmosphere 🧐 3. Sun Tzu's Art of War City - A hall for exploring military wisdom 📚 - Highlights: 40-yuan admission, distinct theme, deep cultural roots 🌱 - Activities: Visit exhibition halls, learn about military culture 🌈 4. Mada Lake Wetland - A picturesque natural landscape 🌳 - Highlights: Free, lush aquatic plants, abundant waterbirds 🎊 - Activities: Lakeside walks, admire lotuses and waterbirds 🎈 5. Du Shoutian's Former Residence - A mansion steeped in Confucian culture 🏠 - Highlights: 30-yuan admission, unique architecture, deep cultural heritage 🎇 - Activities: Tour the residence, learn about Du's life 📿 6. Shell Levee Island and Wetland National Nature Reserve - A magical place to connect with nature 🌊 - Highlights: Free, beautiful shell levees, thriving wetland ecosystem 🎊 - Activities: Walk the levees, observe flora and fauna 🎈 Hotel accommodations For a group of four, here are approximate costs for suitable room types, which may vary by room type and season. 1. Binzhou Guiyuan Hotel 🌟 - Highlights: Prime location, excellent facilities, attentive service 💁‍♀️ - Why recommend: Convenient travel, comfortable stay 🤗 - Budget: Around 500 - 1000 yuan per night 2. Binzhou Zhonghai Hotel 🌟 - Highlights: Spacious, elegant, near Zhonghai Lake 🍃 - Why recommend: High-quality stay, premium service 😌 - Budget: Around 600 - 1200 yuan per night 3. Binzhou Hilton Garden Inn 🌟 - Highlights: Renowned brand, comprehensive amenities, great location 🍃 - Why recommend: Excellent stay experience, easy travel 😌 - Budget: Around 500 - 1100 yuan per night Cost breakdown - Transportation: Estimated 300 - 400 yuan, covering travel between attractions and hotels after arriving in Binzhou. - Admission fees: Wei Family Manor 40×4 + Sun Tzu's Art of War City 40×4 + Du Shoutian's Former Residence 30×4 = (40 + 40 + 30)×4 = 440 yuan. Mada Lake Wetland, Shell Levee Island and Wetland National Nature Reserve, and Qinhuang River Park are free, saving some expenses. - Accommodation: Using Binzhou Guiyuan Hotel as an example, 600 yuan per night × 2 nights = 1200 yuan, with actual costs varying by room type and season. - Dining: Estimated 200 - 300 yuan daily, totaling 600 - 900 yuan for three days. Total budget is ideally around 2000 yuan, adjustable based on actual choices like more economical transportation or lodging. Local specialties 1. Binzhou pot pancakes 🥞: Crispy crust with rich fillings of meat and veggies, deliciously savory without being greasy 😋. 2. Sesame brittle candy 🍬: Sweet, crispy, and packed with sesame flavor, delivering pure happiness with every bite 👍. 3. Yellow River carp 🐟: Tender and nutritious, delicious whether braised or steamed, a signature dish of Binzhou 🤩. Personal reflections Folks, this 3-day family trip to Binzhou was like a magical adventure full of surprises and rewards 🥰. From the historical charm of Wei Family Manor to the wisdom of Sun Tzu's Art of War City, the natural beauty of Mada Lake Wetland, the cultural immersion at Du Shoutian's Former Residence, and the joyful family moments at Shell Levee Island and Qinhuang River Park 🌈, the kids were brimming with curiosity and excitement, their eyes sparkling with wonder. The local delicacies further delighted our taste buds with Binzhou's unique flavors 😎. With a 2000-yuan budget, we gained endless joy and precious family memories. I'm sure you and your kids will be equally captivated by Binzhou's charm and have an unforgettable time 💕. Come to Binzhou and start your amazing family adventure!

**🌿Binzhou Travel Guide | 1-Minute Guide to Exploring the "Yellow River Ancient Charm · Ecological Small City"! 🌊** 📍 **Location**: Northern Shandong Province (High-speed rail to Binzhou Station, 1.5h drive from Jinan/Zibo) 🔥 **Must-Visit Recommendations**: 1️⃣ **Heban Mountain National Forest Park**: A natural oxygen bar! Hike through "Nine Waterfall Valley", enjoy autumn red leaves covering the mountains, overlook the forest sea from glass walkways, and enjoy starry skies at mountain homestays 🌌. 2️⃣ **Wei Family Manor**: The only castle-style residence in northern China! Qing Dynasty military fortress + secret passages and mechanisms, wear traditional costumes to film your own "Courtyard Drama" spy movie 📸. 3️⃣ **Shell Barrier Island**: One of the world's three largest shell beaches! Collect colorful shells at low tide, watch flocks of migratory birds dance, and experience breathtaking sunsets along the coastline 🌅. 4️⃣ **Du Shoutian's Former Residence**: Home of the imperial tutor! Qing Dynasty quadrangle courtyard + imperial examination culture exhibition, touch century-old cultural heritage among gray tiles and blue bricks 📚. 💡 **Travel Tips**: ✅ **Best Seasons**: April-May (fragrant locust blossoms), October-November (red leaves + bird watching season). ✅ **Transportation**: Attractions are scattered, recommend self-driving or hiring a car (about 300 yuan/day). ✅ **Must-Try Food**: Guozi Bing (pan cake), sesame brittle, Binzhou pot stickers - old street night markets fill you up for just 20 yuan per person! ✅ **Hidden Experience**: Huimin Hot Springs Resort - super healing when snowflakes fall in winter ♨️. 📸 **Instagram-Worthy Spots**: 🌉 **Changsheng Temple at Heban Mountain**: Cliff-side Taoist temple + rolling sea of clouds, looks like "Castle in the Sky" from drone shots. 🏮 **Shell Barrier Island Boardwalk**: Shell beach + windmill clusters, perfect for Japanese-style filter photos! ✨ **Wei Family Manor City Wall**: Climb high for panoramic views of the manor, maximum ancient martial arts vibes. 🌿 **Xizhifang Ancient Village**: Elevated residences by the Yellow River, experience ancient pottery + tie-dye crafts. 🎫 **Ticket Information**: - Heban Mountain: 40 yuan - Wei Family Manor: 30 yuan - Shell Barrier Island: Free 💬 **Discussion Topic**: Would you rather explore Binzhou's natural secrets or travel back in time to the century-old fortress? Share your travel wishes in the comments! 👇

📖📖Itinerary Day 1: Beijing→Cangzhou Museum→Magnolia Hotel (Cangzhou Qingfenglou Nanchuan Old Street Branch)→Cangzhou Confucian Temple→The Grand Canal Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition Hall of China→Qingfenglou→Langyinlou→Nanchuanlou Day 2: Qingzhen North Great Mosque of Cangzhou→Cangzhou Iron Lion and Old City Ruins Park→Former Residence of Du Shoutian→GreenTree Inn Express (Binzhou Fenghuang 3rd Road) Day 3: Ancient Chariot Museum of China→Qingzhou Museum→Fange Pavilion Park→Qingzhou Ancient City Day 4: Tuoshan Grottoes→Longxing Temple→Yunmen Mountain Scenic Area Day 5: Guan Zhong Memorial Hall→Qi Culture Museum→Beijing

The first stop on my Shandong trip was Binzhou, Shandong's northern gateway and northeast neighbor of Jinan. Although Binzhou is not very famous, it has a long history. I visited a real ancient architectural complex early in the morning, the little-known former residence of Du Shoutian, the teacher of Emperor Xianfeng during the Qing Dynasty. 🐱The former residence of Du Shoutian was also the former residence of the Du clan (the Du family had been a prominent family since the Ming Dynasty, and by the late Qing Dynasty, they had produced 12 Jinshi degree holders). The architectural style is typical of northern Shandong during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The original Du residence was a courtyard house, containing 28 small courtyards and more than 300 rooms. Now only the embroidery building, the living room, and some of the main halls and side rooms remain. The biggest feature of the overall architecture is its openness. Although relatively independent, there are no enclosed courtyards, and there are many back doors and side doors, making it easily accessible. The most interesting attraction in the courtyard is the "nail house" in the southwest corner. When the Du family expanded their residence, there was one family who refused to move no matter how much money they were offered. Because the residents' surname was Gang, they were called the "steel pillars" of the Du family compound. 🐱I met a very clingy calico cat🐱 tour guide in the courtyard. It accompanied us almost the entire way, and even stopped to wait for us when we were too slow. I guess it will get certified to work as a tour guide once it learns to talk. 🐱Former Residence of Du Shoutian Address: South Street, Binbei Subdistrict Office, Binzhou District, Binzhou City, Shandong Province Opening hours: 8:00–17:00, last entry 16:30 (winter) / 8:00–18:00, last entry 17:30 (summer) Tickets: 50 CNY/adult, 43 CNY if booked one day in advance

I've made a three-day plan Day 1: Explore History and Culture • Morning: Visit the Binzhou Museum to learn about the history and culture of Binzhou. There are many ancient relics and exhibits here. Then go to Binzhou Ancient City and stroll through the streets of the ancient city, experiencing the ancient atmosphere. • Noon: Taste local specialties, such as Binzhou Braised Chicken. • Afternoon: You can go to the Binzhou Underground Great Wall, a military project built in the Ming Dynasty, which is very spectacular. • Evening: You can go for a walk in Zhonghai Park and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lake and mountains. Day 2: Experience Natural Beauty • Morning: Go to Weiji Ancient Village, where there are many handicraft workshops and folk custom sightseeing and water activities. You can also taste authentic farmhouse dishes. • Noon: Have a farmhouse meal in Weiji Ancient Village. • Afternoon: Visit the Former Residence of Du Shoutian to learn about the story of Du Shoutian, a famous minister of the Qing Dynasty. • Evening: You can go to the Binzhou Grand Theater to enjoy a wonderful performance. Day 3: Experience Binzhou's Unique Features • Morning: Go to the Binzhou Shell Dike Island and Wetland National Nature Reserve to admire the spectacular shell dikes and wetland scenery. • Noon: Enjoy a seafood feast nearby. • Afternoon: Go to Wudi Ancient City, where there are many antique buildings and handicraft shops. You can also visit the Wudi Ancient City Museum and County Government Office. • Evening: Taste local snacks in Wudi Ancient City, and then return. Tips: • Check the route in advance, as some sections of the road may be under construction. • Prepare appropriate clothing according to the weather conditions. • Try to participate in local folk activities to experience Binzhou culture in depth.