Things To Do
in Rizhao
Rizhao is a coastal city in Shandong Province blessed with abundant sunshine and a long, scenic shoreline. It sits along the Yellow Sea, balancing a working port with clean beaches, leafy parks, and a growing modern skyline. The city blends traditional seafood markets and Shandong cuisine with a relaxed, seaside pace that feels approachable for travelers.
With affordable accommodations and easy access to nature and culture, Rizhao is a great base for beach walks, coastal scenery, and laid-back exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Rizhao's Ancient City, where you can stroll through the traditional streets lined with beautiful old architecture. Stop by a local tea house to enjoy a refreshing cup of green tea while soaking in the morning ambiance. Don't forget to take pictures of the vibrant marketplace as vendors set up their stalls.
After lunch at a local dumpling restaurant, head to the Rizhao Museum to learn about the city's rich history and cultural heritage. The museum showcases artifacts from ancient times to modern-day, providing insight into the region’s significance. Spend some time at the nearby Rizhao Bay, where you can enjoy the coastal breeze and scenic views.
As the sun sets, venture to the bustling night market to experience the local cuisine and shop for souvenirs. Try some freshly grilled seafood or local snacks while enjoying the lively atmosphere filled with music and laughter. Cap off your evening with a leisurely walk along the beach, watching the waves under the moonlight.
Begin your day with a visit to Rizhao’s famous Golden Beach, known for its soft sands and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a calming morning by taking a leisurely walk along the shoreline, collecting seashells, and breathing in the fresh sea air. You might spot some locals practicing tai chi on the beach, which is a great way to join the morning ritual.
After a refreshing swim, enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the many seafood restaurants, where freshly caught fish is served. Spend your afternoon sunbathing or participating in water sports such as jet skiing or paddleboarding. For a more relaxed experience, rent a beach chair and enjoy a good book while listening to the sound of the waves.
As the day winds down, find a cozy spot at a beachfront café and watch the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. Engage with locals and fellow travelers as you sip on a tropical drink, enjoying the laid-back vibe. Eventually, take a stroll along the promenade to feel the cool evening breeze and watch the stars emerge in the night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🧺Groceries for a day | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and beaches
- Affordability and easy access to seafood
- Relaxed pace suitable for leisurely travel
- Safe and welcoming environment for first-time visitors
- Nightlife and big-city amenities are limited
- Some attractions and services are seasonal or weather-dependent
- Public transport between farther neighborhoods can be slower
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问洗手间在哪儿？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "可以刷卡吗？" - Can I pay with a card?
Places to Visit in Rizhao
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, tree-lined promenade with long golden beaches; ideal for sunrise shoots and evening silhouettes over the water.
Hillside park offering city and sea panoramas, gardens, and traditional-style structures for framed cityscapes.
Iconic coastal lighthouse scene with boats, silhouettes of fisherman, and vibrant sunset colors.
Food in Rizhao
Rizhao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh, simply prepared yellow croaker lightly pan-seared and glazed with a soy-based sauce to emphasize the fish’s natural sweetness.
Must-Try!
A communal pot featuring a variety of local seafood, tofu, and vegetables in a clear, flavorful broth.
A vegetarian-friendly Shandong classic using tofu, mushrooms, greens, and a savory sauce.
Quick, garlicky stir-fry highlighting fresh clams from the coast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Harbor-side market offering fresh seafood, vegetables, herbs, and ready-to-eat bites; best explored in the morning for the freshest catch.
Evening stalls along the promenade serving skewers, dumplings, fried seafood, and other quick bites with sea views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer a polite greeting and a slight nod; address elders by title; maintain a respectful, calm demeanor in public spaces and religious sites.
Use chopsticks properly; avoid sticking them upright in bowls; share dishes and wait for everyone to be served before eating.
Dress modestly, remove hats when appropriate, and keep voices low in temples and sacred places.
Safety
Tipping in Rizhao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most restaurants or shops; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip at higher-end establishments is appreciated but not expected.
WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used; cash is accepted in most places; some hotels and larger stores take bank cards (UnionPay).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming coastal flora; bring a light jacket and comfortable walking shoes.
Warm to hot and humid; sea breezes help, but hydration and sun protection are essential; watch for typhoon season (July–September).
Pleasant and less humid; clear skies and comfortable sea breezes—great for outdoor activities and photography.
Cool to cold with occasional rain; crowds thin and coastal walks are more reflective; pack warm layers.
Rizhao at Night
Hiking in Rizhao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy-to-moderate coastal trail with sea views, ideal for a half-day hike or long sunset walk.
Gentle hills with forested sections and viewpoints over the coast; suitable for short day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Rizhao by plane.
Small regional airport serving Rizhao with domestic connections; easy taxi or shuttle service to the city.
Major international airport within a few hours’ drive; frequent domestic connections and international flights; access to Rizhao by rail or road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The vast majority of residents, with small minority communities including Hui and others.
A substantial number of long-term residents and workers who relocate from nearby areas, contributing to a stable, family-friendly atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed in Shandong; you may catch local matches when schedules align.
Swimming, beach volleyball, windsurfing, and boating along Rizhao’s coastline.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rizhao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Seafood-focused cuisine means vegetarian options are common with tofu, mushrooms, greens, and vegetable dishes. Look for ordered vegetable plates or tofu-based dishes, and communicate dietary needs clearly (我吃素).