Laoshan Mountain

Why it's worth it

The highest mountain on China's coast — 1,133 metres of granite rising straight out of the Yellow Sea, wrapped in Taoist legend, spring water and mist. 'Laoshan water' is a national brand; this is where it comes from.

Don't miss

• The Taiqing Palace complex — Han-dynasty cypresses and Tang temples at the mountain's foot
• The eastern coastal boardwalk line, cliff-hugging between mountain and surf
• Cable car up for the summit sea view on clear days; the ridge trail for the ambitious

Getting there

Bus 104 or 304 from downtown, or a tourist line to the Yangkou/Taiqing entrances — about 90 minutes.

Tips

• Pick one line (Taiqing, Yangkou or Beijiushui) per day; the loop of all three is a myth
• Sea fog rolls in fast — check the summit camera at the ticket office before paying for the cable
• Bottled 'Laoshan spring water' sold on the mountain is the real thing; the cola is an acquired taste