Linyi is an eco-friendly city that lies in the southeastern region of Shandong. This is the largest metropolitan center among Shandong’s 17 metro regions. Linyi has jurisdiction over 9 counties, with a population of 11 million, one of the few metros in China with a population exceeding 10 million people. What distinguishes Linyi from the other cities is its own ecosystem. Here, one can find a wealth of greenery, clear water, fresh air, and of course, rich history and friendly people. In the summer, if you drive from a neighboring region into Linyi, you will immediately feel a change in temperature of 3°C and below. Linyi’s airport also links to all other major cities in China.
Yimeng Mountain Region. Linyi’s landscape is evenly divided by the mountains, hills and flatlands. Close to Linyi, you will find the Mengshan National Park. This enormous mountain is the second of the “five great mountains in Shandong”. It is often described as the second “Mount Tai”, the most sacred mountain in China (and in Taian region). At the foot of Yimeng Mountain is a blanket of lush green trees and colorful vegetation. Mountain climbers often enjoy endless views at the peak. There are 300 rivers at least 10 km long in Linyi, making that one-fifth of the entire Shandong province! Years ago, a number of earthquakes had rocked Linyi. However, this tragedy was turned into a blessing for Linyi, giving it the freshest streams and hot springs. To enjoy a unique experience, watch the river flow into the nearby Underground Grand Valley. It is one of the top 10 natural wonders in Shandong. Do not miss the underground rafting of 2,000m. We sense an opportunity for a new Guinness World Record looming large here. Equally as excited are the hot spring resorts in Linyi. The Guan Tang Hot Spring is located in Hedong District. Zhi Sheng Tang Spring Resort is in Yinan County and the Dongfang Ruihai is in Yishui County. The warm, clear water is an ideal place to relax and soothe both your body and mind.
Linyi has various geomorphic types. Shandong’s Tianyu Museum of Natural History houses 390,000 specimens and is the largest natural geological museum in the world. Linyi also has 72 plateaus. Take a hike or ride the cable car onto this “cannot miss” wonder called the Kingdom of Ji Plateau (Jiwanggu) in Yishui County. The Ji Plateau is said to be the last stronghold of the Ji Kingdom before they were annexed by the Qi State. The Ji Kingdom started during the Shang Dynasty (1600-1046 BC). And in 691 BC, the Ji Kingdom was wiped out by Qi State. The history book, Chunqiu Zuo Zhuan, documents in detail the rise and fall of Ji Kingdom during 682 BC. It was in 2012 a huge tomb was discovered and excavated on the plateau top. Based on its size and shape, archeologists were able to differentiate the person’s social class. But the identity is yet to be confirmed. Plan to spend at least a full day on top of this 4 km2 plateau. The village, which was one occupied 20 years ago by 20 different households, has now been turned into a museum. You will also see the tomb with detailed photos and notes in English. Live re-creation of historical battles and rituals are performed daily all year long.
Linyi is also home to many Chinese philosophers, scholars, military strategists, mathematicians, etc. Among them, two great Chinese household names, Zhuge Liang and Wang Xizhi, come to the forefront.
Zhuge Liang Cultural Theme Park. Zhuge Liang, the most famous Chinese military strategist, was the chancellor of the Shu State during the War of Three Kingdoms (220-280 AD). However his influence reached far beyond the fields of battle. In addition to being a well-renowned scholar and thinker, he was credited for the invention of numerous military and civilian machineries. One of his inventions known to many is the repeating crossbow that surpassed the speed of any single crossbow-firing bolts, which got named after. He was also responsible for creating the recipe of mantou, a Chinese steamed bun.
Zhuge Liang was loyal and far-sighted as the right-hand man to Lord Bei Liu, one of the emperors of the Three Kingdom. He had most of the control over the Shu State. Even after Lord Bei Liu died, he still honored and respected Lord Bei Liu’s son with authority. At 27 years old, he had correctly forecasted the next 30 years’ future trends for the State.
And there is Wang Xizhi, the “sage of calligraphy”. There is an old Chinese saying, “Wen Ru Qi Ren”, meaning that your calligraphy is a reflection of your personal character. To many Chinese people, calligraphy is a life long journey. And Wang was no exception. Since his first taste of calligraphy as a child, Wang became so dedicated to the art that, as complimented by his hometown fellows, he drained the pond at his residence to grind paint for practice and writing. He is responsible for thousands of drawings and poems. Visit his residence to see the pond he dried up. Do you think that was possible?
Bamboo Spring (Zhuquan) Village is a “must-see” place if you would like to experience Chinese traditional village life. Bamboo Spring (Zhuquan) Village is named for its abundance in bamboos and springs. You can see beautiful stone paths lined between the classical farm houses and stream appearing very limpid. The village itself has more than 400 years of history. Interestingly, the spring water quality passes the national standard for drinking water! Therefore, people can drink water directly from the springs. Knock on the door to see how villagers embroider their shoes and how their meals are prepared. Explore into their pottery shop to add a few pottery pieces to your collection, where these pieces have even been picked as national prizes. Check out their bed and breakfast stay and stay the night too.
Natural Underground Gallery. Located at the foot of Jiuding Lianhua Mountain. It possesses the largest quantity of stalactites and stalagmites with a gallery of 6,600m long.
Linyi is a green region with open arms for your visit.
