First trip to Rizhao? Just follow this itinerary!
Heading to Rizhao without any preparation? You might miss out on a lot of fun and run into some trouble. I learned this the hard way😫. So, I've put together this super practical Rizhao travel guide, along with essential tips for April travel. Save it now and get ready for your perfect Rizhao trip!
🌞Rizhao Weather
🌡️Rizhao in April boasts beautiful spring weather with gradually warming temperatures, generally between 10℃ and 18℃. The daytime sun is warm and pleasant. A long-sleeved shirt or thin hoodie paired with a light windbreaker is perfect for strolling along Rizhao's beaches. This allows you to enjoy the sea breeze and sunshine while staying warm in the slightly cool mornings and evenings. However, the temperature difference between day and night is quite significant, especially when night falls and the sea breeze picks up. It's best to bring a thicker jacket, such as a knitted cardigan or a light down jacket, for warmth in the mornings and evenings. Be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip and adjust your clothing accordingly for a comfortable experience.
⚠️Rizhao Travel Tips:
❌Around Rizhao Railway Station and Bus Station, some people may enthusiastically try to lure you into cheap hotels or recommend "one-day tour" routes. Don't trust them! These hotels often have poor conditions and questionable hygiene. The "one-day tour" routes are full of consumer traps, and they may take you to expensive shopping spots and force you to buy things. Book your accommodation on a reputable platform in advance and plan your own itinerary.
❌Some vendors on the beach sell so-called "fresh seafood" at seemingly attractive prices, but the quality is not guaranteed. It's likely unsold stock, and short-weighing is common. If you want to buy seafood, go to a reputable seafood market like Shijiu Seafood Market. They have clearly marked prices, fresh and affordable seafood, and vendors can even process it for you so you can enjoy a delicious seafood meal right away.
❌Don't casually take photos with people dressed as "marine cartoon characters" on the beach. They will ask for money after taking the photo, and the price is often high. Also, ignore those who hand out flyers and promo codes at the entrance of scenic spots; they are mostly trying to lure you into spending money.
✔️If you want to visit Wanpingkou Scenic Area, it's best to check the tide times in advance. The beach area is larger at low tide, and you can find shells, small crabs, and other interesting things. Wanpingkou in April has white sand and clear waves. Take a stroll on the beach, play around, and enjoy the beautiful sunshine and sand. Pay attention to safety and avoid dangerous areas of the sea.
✔️To taste authentic Rizhao cuisine, head straight to Dongyi Town. Here, you'll find long-established restaurants serving "Spanish mackerel dumplings." These dumplings are large and generously filled with fresh and juicy Spanish mackerel, offering a true taste of Rizhao. There's also "sea sand noodles," chewy noodles served with a delicious sea sand soup, a steaming hot treat for your taste buds. In addition, the University Town night market is a food treasure trove, offering everything from grilled squid to pancakes, satisfying your diverse culinary desires.
✔️To see the most beautiful sunset over the sea in Rizhao, go to Sunshine Coast Scenic Area in Shanhai Tian. In the evenings of April, the sea breeze is gentle, and the golden sunset casts a shimmering glow on the sea, creating a breathtaking scene. Find a good spot in advance, such as the seaside viewing platform, and wait quietly for the sunset, capturing this beautiful moment with your camera.
✔️After visiting Rizhao Seaside National Forest Park, take a stroll along the forest trails, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the forest, breathe in the fresh air, and stop by the Elk Garden to see the adorable elk. If you want to take the sightseeing bus within the scenic area, wait at the designated stops and check the operating hours and routes in advance. Don't be tempted by cheap offers from people soliciting on the roadside to avoid being overcharged.
✔️If you plan to visit Wulian Mountain, choose a clear day. Wulian Mountain in April is lush and scenic. Book tickets and round-trip transportation online in advance for a hassle-free and cost-effective experience. Enjoy the scenery along the mountain trails, and please respect the mountain's ecological environment and travel responsibly.
🏘Accommodation Recommendations
✔️It's recommended to stay in Donggang District, which is close to Wanpingkou Scenic Area, Dongyi Town, and other attractions. It's convenient for getting around and allows you to enjoy Rizhao's coastal scenery and culinary delights at any time. The surrounding area has comprehensive facilities, including shopping malls and restaurants. There are various hotel options, from luxury to budget-friendly, so you can choose according to your budget. If you're traveling during peak season, be sure to book your room in advance, as rooms are often hard to come by.
❌Some homestays in remote suburban areas, although cheap, have inconvenient transportation, requiring a lot of travel time each day. The surrounding facilities are also limited, and it can be quite dark at night. In case of emergencies, it might be difficult to get help, so choose carefully.
📍Rizhao Transportation:
Rizhao's attractions are relatively spread out, but buses and subways are the most convenient ways to get around, reaching almost all major attractions. It's very convenient to purchase a Rizhao bus and subway card or use your mobile phone's transit code for payment. If you want to visit Wulian Mountain, you can take a bus to Rizhao General Bus Station and then transfer to a special line bus to Wulian Mountain. When taking a taxi, confirm the destination and price with the driver to avoid disputes and ensure a smooth journey. In short, plan your transportation in advance for a seamless Rizhao trip!