A Stroll Through Yishan: Two Days and One Night to Rediscover Your Breath in the "Fairy Mountain of Central Shandong"
Yishan may not be as famous as Mount Tai, but it is precisely this low profile that hides its most authentic landscape paintings and peaceful freedom. I just took a trip there last month, so keep this warm guide handy—I guarantee you’ll have a thorough and enjoyable experience!
Day 1: Enter the Mountain, Explore Waterfalls, Visit Ancient Temples
Morning: Head straight to Dongzhen Temple to feel the millennium-old cultural heritage
Starting from Linyi city or Weifang, it takes just over an hour by car to reach the foot of Yishan. I suggest your first stop isn’t rushing up the mountain but visiting Dongzhen Temple near the mountain gate. This is where emperors of various dynasties worshipped the Yishan deity. Ancient steles stand tall, old trees tower overhead, and once you step in, the serene sense of history immediately separates you from the outside noise. Touch those weathered stone tablets and imagine the grand ceremonies held here by ancient emperors and officials—it’s quite fascinating.
Noon: Taste the “Mountain Flavors” at a farmhouse restaurant
Have lunch at a farmhouse restaurant at the foot of the mountain—definitely a wise choice. Order some authentic dishes: Yimeng stir-fried chicken (made with local free-range chicken, cooked over a wood fire stove, incredibly fragrant!), cold mixed wild vegetables (refreshing and full of natural flavor), and spring water tofu made with Yishan spring water, rich in bean aroma. After a hearty meal, you’ll be fully energized for the mountain adventure!
Afternoon: View the mountains from Yuhuang Peak, listen to the thunder of Baizhang Waterfall
Enter the core scenic area and consider buying a transportation ticket within the park to save your legs. The vehicle will take you close to the summit, then a short hike will bring you to Yuhuang Peak. This is the highest point of Yishan. Standing at the top, you can see an endless sea of green stretching to the horizon—so refreshing that all your worries drift away with the clouds.
On the way down, be sure to visit Baizhang Cliff Waterfall! This is a rare large waterfall north of the Yangtze River. Even before you get close, you can hear the roaring water. When the full view of the waterfall appears, you can’t help but say “wow.” The water rushes down from the high cliff, crashing into the pool below, sending mist in your face. Rainbows often appear in the sunlight, making it feel magical. Stay a while longer and let the negative oxygen ions intoxicate you.
Evening: Stay in the mountains and enjoy the starry sky
At night, I recommend staying at a mountain resort or a clean guesthouse. Night falls early and quietly in the mountains. Have a simple dinner, sit in the courtyard, and look up at the stars. You won’t see such a clear and brilliant starry sky in the city, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Milky Way. Sleep well, listening to the faint sound of the stream.
Day 2: Sunrise, Forest, and a Relaxed Return
Early morning: Lion’s Ridge welcomes the first ray of sunlight
If you have the energy, get up early! Ask the guesthouse owner for directions to Lion’s Ridge to watch the sunrise. Watching the sun slowly rise from the sea of clouds and mountains, dyeing the entire range golden and orange, the vibrant life force will make you feel that waking up early is worth it a thousand times over.
Morning: Stroll among ancient pines and breathe in the forest bath
After watching the sunrise, return to your accommodation for breakfast (usually provided by the guesthouse). Try Yishan’s specialty pancake rolled with scallions and spread with homemade sauce—down-to-earth deliciousness.
Then take a walk through the ancient pine forest. This forest is incredibly comfortable, filled with pine trees hundreds to thousands of years old, each with unique shapes, and the air is fragrant with pine needles. Walking on the wooden boardwalk, sunlight filters through the leaves, creating dappled patterns, and you might even see squirrels hopping by. This is a natural oxygen bar—walk slowly, breathe deeply, and cleanse your lungs.
Noon: Pack up your mood and enjoy the journey home
At noon, you can find a restaurant near the scenic area exit for a warm meal, such as a soup made with Yishan mountain goat, fresh and comforting. Then you can pack up contentedly and set off on your way home.
Helpful Tips for You:
1. Wear the right shoes! There’s a lot of walking and hiking, so a pair of comfortable, non-slip sneakers is essential.
2. Bring a jacket. The mountain weather changes often, and it’s much cooler in the morning and evening than in the city, so a jacket is a must.
3. Travel light. Just carry a backpack with water, snacks, a power bank, and tissues—keeping it light makes hiking easier.
4. How to get there: Driving is the most convenient. If taking public transport, first get to Linqu County or Linyi City, then transfer to a tourist shuttle or taxi.
5. Where to stay: There are many hotels and guesthouses on Yishan Street at the foot of the mountain. If you want peace and quiet, stay in the mountains, but the conditions are relatively simple.
Yishan hasn’t been overly commercialized; what it offers is solid natural scenery, deep history, and simple folk customs. Spend two days here, and you’ll recharge fully, returning home feeling light and relaxed. Hope you have a great time at Yishan!