Autumn is the perfect time to visit Shandong, offering not only stunning natural scenery but also a rich revolutionary history and incredibly popular barbecue. Here's a 4-day, 3-night Shandong itinerary with a budget of approximately 600 yuan, ideal for students and those seeking value for money.
🍂 Shandong 4-Day, 3-Night Value-for-Mountain Trip Guide
✨ Highlights
· Mountain and Sea Wonders & Ancient City Charm: Climb to the top of Yimeng Mountain's Guimeng Scenic Area and experience the refreshing "natural oxygen bar"; stroll through Qingzhou Ancient City and explore its ancient streets and alleys.
· Revolutionary Memories & Barbecue Extravaganza: Relive deeply moving revolutionary stories in the hometown of the Yimeng Red Army's "Red Sisters" and at a revolutionary film and television base; in the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant local life of Zibo with an authentic barbecue.
· In-depth Experience with Ultimate Value: Through careful planning of transportation, accommodation, and tickets, experience the essence of Shandong's natural beauty and culture within a limited budget.
📌 Basic Information
Best Time to Visit: September to November, when the autumn air is crisp and the scenery is beautiful.
Budget Allocation (per person):
Category | Budget (RMB) | Remarks
Accommodation (3 nights) | 180 | Budget hotels/guesthouses (approx. RMB 60/night)
Dining | 200 | Approx. RMB 50 per day, enjoy Zibo barbecue, Shandong snacks, and other local specialties
Local Transportation | 120 | Public buses, intercity buses, etc.
Entrance Fees | 100 | Core expenditure, make full use of student IDs and other discount cards
Total | 600
🗺 Itinerary Overview and Flow
🧳 Detailed Itinerary
⛰️ Day 1: Yimeng Mountain · Natural Oxygen Bar
· Morning to Afternoon: Visit the core attraction—Yimeng Mountain Guimeng Scenic Area.
· Tips: Guimeng Scenic Area is located at the main peak of Yimeng Mountain, with an altitude of 1156 meters. It is recommended to pay attention to the official promotional activities of the scenic area in advance, as there are sometimes free admission policies. If you purchase a ticket normally, the adult ticket is approximately 70 yuan. After entering the scenic area, you can admire the Mengshan Immortal Statue (the world's largest mountain carving), challenge yourself on the cliffside walkway, and experience the spectacular sea of clouds at attractions such as Eagle's Nest Peak.
· Lunch: It is recommended to bring your own snacks and water, or have a simple meal near the scenic area to save time and money.
· Evening: Check into an economy hotel in Linyi city or Yinan County. For dinner, you can try local specialties such as Yimeng Bachelor Chicken and Mengshan Whole Lamb Soup.
🏞️ Day 2: Red Yimeng · Ancient City Stroll
· Morning: Visit the hometown of the Yimeng Red Sisters and the Yimeng Red Film and Television Base. Here, you can learn about the Yimeng spirit of "inseparable bond, sharing life and death," and experience the profound heritage of red culture. Some venues may offer free or discounted tickets; please check in advance.
· Afternoon to Evening: Travel to Qingzhou Ancient City (free entry to the streets). This thousand-year-old city preserves a large number of government buildings, traditional residences, and classical gardens from the Ming and Qing dynasties. You can stroll along the cobblestone streets, visit the Ouyuan Historical and Cultural Street, and experience the ancient customs and folkways. For dinner, be sure to try Qingzhou's famous Old Locust Tree Fried Buns.
🌊 Day 3: Yellow River Estuary · Barbecue Extravaganza
· Morning to Afternoon: Head to the Yellow River Estuary Ecological Tourism Area. This is where the Yellow River flows into the Bohai Sea. You can witness the unique "river-sea confluence" boundary, admire the vast wetlands and reed beds, and, if the season is right, may even spot rare birds such as the red-crowned crane. Peak season (April 1st to November 30th) adult tickets are approximately 60 RMB per person. The area is large; it is recommended to allow 3-4 hours for your visit.
· Evening: Head to Zibo to experience the wildly popular Zibo barbecue. Find a barbecue restaurant recommended by locals (such as Wu's Barbecue, Xiaohan Lamb Barbecue, etc.) and experience the soul of the meal: "small pancakes + scallions + sauce + grilled meat," feeling the city's passion and vibrant atmosphere. Overnight in a budget hotel in Zibo. 👋 Day 4: Reminiscing about Shandong · Returning Home with a Full Heart
· Morning: Free time. You can browse the Badaju Convenience Market in Zibo and buy some local specialties like Zhoucun sesame seed cakes and Qingmeiju crispy beef jerky as souvenirs.
· Afternoon: End your enjoyable Shandong trip and begin your return journey.
🍜 Food Recommendations
Category | Recommended Food | Features | Approximate Average Price/Money-Saving Tips
Zibo Barbecue | The Soulful Three-Piece Barbecue Set: Small pancakes wrapped around grilled meat, scallions, and dipping sauce – a unique way to enjoy Zibo barbecue. 30-50 RMB (Choose shops frequented by locals, avoiding trendy spots)
Yimeng Specialties | Yimeng Singles Chicken, Mengshan Whole Lamb Soup | Representative dishes of the Yimeng Mountains, the singles chicken is delicious, and the whole lamb soup has a rich and flavorful broth. 20-40 RMB (Choose a restaurant in the county town) Qingzhou Snacks: Lao Huai Shu Fried Buns, Longsheng Pastries. Lao Huai Shu Fried Buns are a famous Qingzhou snack, crispy on the bottom and generously filled; Longsheng Pastries are a century-old brand, with sweet and delicious honey-glazed pastries. 10-20 RMB
🏨 Accommodation Recommendations
· Area Selection:
· Linyi/Yinan: Choose budget hotels in the city center or county town; transportation and dining are convenient.
· Zibo: Zhangdian District is recommended; it's a hub for barbecue restaurants and convenient for travel.
💡 Useful Tips
1. Transportation:
· For intercity travel within Shandong Province, you can choose trains or long-distance buses; advance booking may enjoy discounts.
· Within cities, you can take public transportation and ride-hailing services. In Zhangdian District of Zibo, you can ride shared electric bikes.
2. Ticket Strategy:
· Students, seniors, and other special groups must bring relevant documents; most attractions offer discounts.
• Before your trip, be sure to check the official websites of scenic spots or mainstream travel apps for special offers or free admission during specific holidays (e.g., the Guimeng Scenic Area of Yimeng Mountain offered free admission in the summer of 2025).
3. Equipment Tips:
• Shoes: Comfortable athletic shoes are a must! Climbing Yimeng Mountain requires a lot of walking.
• Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night is significant in autumn, so bring a jacket.
• Protection: Sunscreen and rain gear (rain is occasional in autumn).
This guide aims to help you deeply experience Shandong's natural scenery, revolutionary history, and culinary culture within a limited budget. Plan ahead, relax, and you're sure to have an unforgettable autumn memory!