Tai'an

Understand

Tai 'an City is located at the southern foot of Mount Tai in the middle of Shandong Province, with Jinan, Zibo and Linyi cities in the east, Jining City in the south, Liaocheng City and Puyang City in Henan Province across the Yellow River in the west, Taishan and Jinan City as the boundary in the north, between 116°20 '-117 °59' east and 35°38 '-36 °28' north, with a total area of 7762 square kilometers. By the end of 2022, Tai 'an City has 5.401 million permanent residents, and the urbanization rate of permanent residents is 65.45%.

History The name Tai'an (泰安 Tài'ān) is from the word 国泰民安 (Peace of the nation and well-being of the people). It lies in the south of the sacred mountain Mount Tai or Taishan (泰山 Tàishān) in local language. This mountain is considered the palace for all the gods, which is similar to Mount Olympus. The city is historically considered a holy city where the three worlds meet: World of Gods (Heaven), World of Human (Mortals), and World of Afterlife (Hell). Apart from the fact that every year thousands of people visit Tai'an to admire its nature, to tour its slopes, and reach its peaks, historically, if an emperor is to seek peace of his dynasty, a national ceremony which lasts a month shall be arranged in which the emperor himself shall worship the mountain gods and keep on diet. To study the history of the founding of Tai'an, one needs to go back to the Spring and Autumn Period around 500 BC when the state of Qi founded its first city, Boyi (the site of the old county village), near Mount Tai. After that, the city was moved three times, and Tai'an City (Qianfeng County) was finally established at the foot of Mount Tai in the fifth year of Kaibao in the Song Dynasty (972). If we count from the founding of Boyeup, Taean City has a history of more than 2,500 years, and if we count from the fifth year of Song Kaibao, Taean City has a history of 1,048 years so far.

Flora and fauna Tai'an Science and Technology Museum 400 square meters of "natural oxygen bar", the introduction of African bullfrogs, Chinese big flat, blue-footed giant centipede, Uganda, such as flowers and more than 30 kinds of rainforest animals, and the introduction of the Palm family, plantain family, the Lily family, the family of Tennessee, such as 14 types of rainforest plants, to create a surprise, strange, live "rainforest".

Climate

Tai'an belongs to the warm temperate continental semi-humid monsoon climate zone, with four distinct seasons, suitable cold and heat, synchronized light and temperature, and rain and heat in the same season. Spring is dr

Getting there

By train & bus Booking a train is not an easy job for non-Chinese speakers. Online ticket agency might provide English interfaces but cost an extra. For Chinese speakers, online booking is the easiest way. Tickets can be paid online using Union Pay, Ali-pay or VISA card, at no additional fee. Otherwise, speaking to the ticket office at the station usually means a really long queue. Online booked ticket can be collected at the ticket machine in ticket halls of a station. Most tickets are fixed-priced. There are no peak hour restrictions. Most tickets are seat-specified. Ticket are in Chinese only. During Chinese New Year or summer time or national day holiday etc. purchasing your ticket in advance is highly recommended.

From Beijing There are several train stations that serves Tai'an including Beijing and Beijingnan (Beijing South), please make sure you are departing from what specified on your ticket. Regular trains (service starting with numbers, K, T, or Z) usually takes 5-7 hours, typically cost ¥78, there are 5 services per day. T31 (towards Hangzhou) is the fastest which takes 5 hours. High speed services (G services) usually takes 2 hours, with a price starting from ¥214, 22 services per day.

From Qingdao If you are coming from Qingdao, regular trains run to Tai'an and take 6 hours while costing ¥56-65 one way, there are 11 services per day. Express trains also run from Qingdao and take only 3 hours, though the ticket price jumps to ¥148. As of Dec 2014, there are 6 express trains daily. You can book the ticket online via 12306.cn (national rail official). Both the regular and express trains pass through Jinan, the capital of Shandong. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Qingdao's Sifang long-distance bus station. The trip takes 6 hours and costs ¥116. To book the ticket, call the free landline 4006-916-916.

From Jinan If you are coming from Jinan, an express train takes only 15 mins, however regular trains, which cost only ¥5, takes 1 hour. Coaches take 1 hour, but usually is more expensive (¥15~¥50).

Train stations There are two different train stations in the city.

1 Taishan Railway Station (泰山火車站). This station serves high speed trains only. From there, bus route 7/4/3 will bring you to the Dai Miao Temple and other attractions. (updated Feb 2016) 2 Taian Railway Station (高铁站, 泰安站, High Speed Railway Station). From this station, bus route K18 (fee: ¥2) will bring you to Tai'an city center, where the other station is. (updated Feb 2016)

By plane The nearest airport is Jinan Yaoqiang International Airport (JNA) w

Getting around

Tai'an is a really small town compared to Qingdao and Jinan, however, there are more of places worth your seeing and potentially help you to understand the Chinese traditional beliefs. As of October 2022, Tai'an City administers 2 district-level cities, 2 county-level cities, and 2 counties. The Tai'an City People's Government is located at 3 Wangyue East Road, Taishan District.

Taishan Distric. Taishan District is located in the central part of Tai'an City and serves as the seat of the Tai'an City Party Committee and City Government. It is the political, economic, technological, cultural, and tourism center of the entire city. Taishan District is situated to the north, backed by Mount Tai, and bordered by Daiyue District of Tai'an City to the east, west, and south. It shares its northern border with Licheng District and Changqing District of Jinan City. The total area covers 336.86 square kilometers and is administratively divided into 5 streets, 2 towns, and 1 township: Daimiao Street, Caiyuan Street, Taiqian Street, Shanggao Street, Xujialou Street, Shengzhuang Town, Qiujia Dian Town, and Dajinkou Township. (updated Nov 2023) Daiyue District. Daiyue District is located on the sunny side of Mount Tai, along the banks of the Wen River, in the heart of the Qilu region. It is situated to the north of the provincial capital, Jinan, and to the south of Confucius's hometown, Qufu. It is known as the midpoint of the "One Mountain, One River, One Sage" tourist line. Daiyue District is the birthplace of the ancient "Dawenkou Culture" and has been renowned since the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods as a "land of ancient civilization and fertile soil, where the Qi and Lu states must compete for the fields of Wenyang." It covers a total area of 917.2 square kilometers and is administratively divided into 3 streets, 14 towns, and 1 township: Zhoudian Street, Tianping Street, Beijipo Street, Shankou Town, Zhuyang Town, Fan Town, Jiaoyu Town, Culai Town, Manzhuang Town, Xiazhang Town, Daolang Town, Huangqian Town, Dawenkou Town, Mazhuang Town, Fangcun Town, Liangzhuang Town, Xiagang Town, and Huamawan Township. (updated Nov 2023) Xintai City. Xintai City is located in the central part of Shandong Province and is one of the top 100 counties nationwide. It is also one of the 15 medium-sized cities designated for key development in Shandong Province. Xintai City was selected as one of the Forbes China's Best County-level Cities during the 7th Forbes China County-level City Ranking. It ranked 25th in the province's scientific development assessment for co

See

1 Culai Mountain (徂徕山). 08:00-17:00. Culai Mountain, also known as Longlai Mountain or Tuolai Mountain, is the sister mountain of Mount Tai. This mountain range runs from northeast to southwest, stretching continuously for 29 kilometers and covering a total area of 250 square kilometers. Its main peak, Taiping Peak, rises to an elevation of 1027 meters, with a relative height of over 800 meters. It is located about 30 kilometers in a straight line from Mount Tai's Yuhuang Peak. Culai Mountain is situated approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Mount Tai and 40 kilometers west of Xintai City. It encompasses a total area of 250 square kilometers, with 97 peaks and more than 100 scenic spots. Over 2500 years ago, it was celebrated in the "Book of Songs" as the "Culai Pine.". (updated Nov 2023) 2 Dai Miao Temple (the Temple of God of Tai Shan). one of the three most important temples in China, initially built 2000 years ago rebuilt around 1600. ¥40. 3 Tai Shan peak (Jade Emperor Peak, 玉皇顶). See main article.Taishan, also known as Daishan, Daizong, Daiyue, Dongyue, Tai Yue, one of the five mountains, there is "the first of the five mountains", "the first mountain in the world" said. 4 Old Town Hall (Laoxianya, 老縣衙), 通天街. Nearby you can find various art collections to be sold. (updated Feb 2016) 5 Fairyland (天外村). The start point of New Middle Royal Path to the peak. Also bus terminus for service to Middle Heaven Gate. (updated Feb 2016) 6 Puchao Temple (普照寺). Puzhao Temple is located in Daguan Town, Dujiangyan City, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province. Temple is dedicated to the heart lotus monk Yinghua master, the construction of the time has been impossible to investigate, according to the "Puzhao Temple source flow record" : "Temple several dynasties, the world has descendants, the end of the Ming fire in offering." The original temple was burned by Zhang Xianzhong at the end of the Ming Dynasty. ¥5. (updated Feb 2016) 7 Red Gate (红门, Hom-Men). Red Gate, full name Taishan Red Gate Palace, is located in Tai 'an City, Shandong Province and Licheng and Changqing county in the southern foot of Taishan Wangmu Lake northwest. It is the starting point of climbing Mount Tai, because there are two red doors on the northwest cliff, which look like doors and get its name. (updated Feb 2016) 8 Daicong Gateway (岱宗坊). Daicong Gateway was built on the platform, four pillars and three doors type stone square, rough and simple shape, forehead title seal character "Daizong square" three golden characters, there is a sign of guiding effect. It was rebuilt during the eighth yea

Do

1 Tai'an Fantawild Joy World, Located to the north of Mingtang Road in the eastern New District of Taishan District, ☏ 400-166-0006 (domestic)Country code missing. It is a fourth-generation large-scale high-tech science fiction theme park, consisting of 17 themed project areas including "Dinosaur Crisis," "Extreme Flight," "Mysterious Valley,""Liaozhai,""Mount Vesuvius,""Conch Bay,""Future Police,""Light of Life," and more. It offers over 300 themed, recreational, and scenic attractions and is designed to accommodate an annual visitor volume of 4 million people. Standard ticket: ¥240 Child ticket: ¥180 Senior ticket: ¥180. (updated Nov 2023) 2 Wanda Cinema, 4F, No. 306, Tai'an Avenue, Tai'an District. 9:00—2:00. There will be the latest movies of the moment in theaters, perfect for watching a movie at your leisure. (updated Nov 2023) Taishan Grand Theatre (泰山大剧院), No. 9, Wangyue East Road, Caiyuan Street (take bus k57), ☏ +86 05382708899. 09:00-17:30. The Taishan Grand Theatre is located in the heart of Taian city center and is an iconic modern performance venue. The theater hosts a variety of high-quality cultural performances throughout the year, including musicals, plays, concerts, dance shows, and traditional operas. Whether it's popular domestic tours or spectacular performances by local art groups, this place is a great destination for art enthusiasts. The theater boasts advanced facilities and outstanding audio-visual effects, providing viewers with a comfortable viewing experience. (updated Sep 2025)

Buy

Supermarket called In-Zone and RT-mart are near the Taishan train station (not the high-speed rail station) where all kinds of Chinese daily foods are available, also KFC therein.

1 Wanda shopping center, Taishan Street, Taishan District. 9:00—22:00. A great place for a shopping experience as well as relaxation and entertainment. (updated Nov 2023) Tai'an Wuyue Square (泰安吾悦广场), No. 388 Tianzhufeng Road, Taishan District, Tai'an City, Shandong Province or No. 566, Qingnian Road, Taishan District, Tai'an City, Shandong Province. 10:00-21:30. Tai'an Wuyue Plaza is a large modern shopping mall in the eastern new city of Tai'an, one of the top choices for shopping, dining, and entertainment for both local residents and tourists. Here you'll find a wide range of well-known domestic and international brands, including fashion clothing, trendy sports, beauty and skincare, as well as children's toys, to meet all your one-stop shopping needs. With Yonghui Supermarket, Uniqlo, Sephora, and numerous other fast fashion and retail brands, we cater to consumers of all ages. Food Gathering: The venue offers a wide range of dining options, from authentic Lu cuisine and specialty snacks to well-known chain restaurants and cafes. Family Entertainment: Equipped with a children's playground and cinema, it is perfect for family travelers. (updated Sep 2025)

Eat

1 Food Street, Located in Daiyue District, Tai'an City. the Food Street is an old street with a long history. There are many traditional snacks and restaurants here, including couple's lung slices, cut cakes, flat food, fungus fried rice cakes, etc. These delicacies are famous for their high quality, low price and pure taste. Many time-honored brands have been in operation for decades and are an important part of Tai'an's catering culture. Walking on this old street, it seems to travel through time and space, feeling a strong sense of history and the warmth of the world. (updated Dec 2023) 2 In Zone Mart (銀座商城). Go to the underground floor for local food market! (updated Feb 2016) Fanzhen Fire (Taishan Fire) (泰安火烧). This is a traditional snack with complete color, aroma and taste. It is produced in Fan Town, Daiyue District, Tai'an City, Shandong Province, and is known as the first food in Fan Town. (updated Dec 2023) Tai Shan Lard-fired Pancakes. a symbol of Tai Shan's famous cuisine, were included in the Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection List of Shandong Province in 2011. The production process for Tai Shan Lard-fired Pancakes is both unique and complex. The ingredients used include lard, flour, yeast, old dough, sesame, and various seasonings. The making of Tai Shan Lard-fired Pancakes involves steps like rendering lard, kneading the dough, allowing it to ferment, preparing the pancake, adding seasonings, and both inner and outer baking. Rendering the lard alone takes over an hour, and the entire process typically spans three to four hours. (updated Nov 2023) Local food can be found north to Taishan Station, called Kangfu Rd (Hospital Rd, 康复路). Taishan's Three Beauties (泰山三美). is a famous Tai'an-style cuisine. Tai'an, known for its high-quality cabbage, tofu, and Tai'an spring water, has long been celebrated as the "Three Beauties of Tai'an." Tai'an cabbage is known for its large size, firm texture, and absence of fibers. Tai'an tofu boasts a fine and pure texture, tender but not tough. Tai'an spring water is clear, sweet, and refreshing, with few impurities. During the Tang Dynasty in the year 736, both Li Bai and Du Fu, when they resided in Shandong, frequently visited Mount Tai and savored the flavors of the "Three Beauties of Tai'an" cuisine. The saying "Traveling the mountains without tasting the Three Beauties, you'll miss the full charm of Mount Tai" is a well-known local praise for the delicious Three Beauties dishes. (updated Nov 2023) Tai'an Pancakes. are one of the distinctive foods in Tai'an, with a history of over a thousand yea

Drink & nightlife

1 AShui Big Cup of Tea, No. 138, Area B, Commercial Street, Wanda Plaza, Taishan Street. 9:00—21:30. A variety of milk tea and fruit tea drinks, a beverage brand unique to Shandong, can be tried. (updated Nov 2023) Jiuyue (九月), 235, Commercial Street, Area C, Wanda Plaza, Lingshan Street, Taishan District. Jiuyue is a unique and atmospheric lounge bar located in the city center, offering a relaxed and comfortable environment perfect for hanging out with friends and unwinding. The bar features live performances by resident singers every night, playing a carefully selected mix of music genres such as pop, jazz, blues, and more. Whether you’re enjoying a finely crafted cocktail or having a conversation with friends, Jiuyue provides a cozy experience for the evening. Every moment here is filled with soft music and a friendly atmosphere, making it feel like a warm haven. (updated Dec 2024) EBRO PUB (埃布罗酒馆), DP001, East of the Escalator, Wanda Plaza Shopping Center, Taishan District, ☏ +86 18416886960. EBRO PUB is a popular lounge bar, ranking first on the Taian lounge bar popularity list. The owner is warm and hospitable, always offering drinks and snacks to guests, creating a cozy social atmosphere. The ambiance and music in the bar are perfectly balanced, providing a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Notably, the interior décor has a distinct West Coast style, full of fashion and artistry, making it a great spot for taking photos. Whether it’s for a gathering, a date, or a moment of relaxation, EBRO PUB offers the perfect setting. (updated Dec 2024) Helens (海伦司小酒馆), No. 252, 2nd Floor, Area C, Wanda Golden Street, Caiyuan Street, Taishan District, ☏ +86 18416886978. Helen’s Tavern is a quiet and popular lounge bar. One of its main features is the carefully paired snacks with drinks, particularly the fried potatoes and chicken wings, which have become favorites among regulars. Additionally, the rose draft beer is another highlight of the bar. Whether you’re gathering with friends or enjoying a peaceful moment alone, Helen’s Tavern offers a warm and charming space. (updated Dec 2024) Taian Oscar Bar (泰安奥斯卡酒吧), Room A2-2008, 2nd Floor, Building A2, Baolong City Plaza, Taishan District, ☏ +86 18416886887. 21:00—2:00. Oscar Bar is a well-known nightclub that attracts many guests who enjoy dancing. After midnight, the atmosphere reaches its peak, with professional DJ performances creating a lively party vibe. The bar offers a variety of selected drinks, and the service is efficient, with staff promptly responding to customer needs to ensure a smooth experien

Sleep

1 Taian International Hostel. 2 Ramada Plaza Taian Dongzun Hotel, At the bottom of Taishan Mountain, No. 16, East Ying Sheng Road. Check-in: 12:00, check-out: 12:00. The hotel is a five-star hotel with a convenient location to climb Mount Tai. Bathtub refrigerator and other facilities are complete. Recommended for business trips or family trips. 450-898. (updated Nov 2023) 3 Taishan Baosheng Hotel, No. 367, Yingsheng Road, Taishan City. Check-in: 12:00, check-out: 12:00. One of the most highly rated hotels, conveniently located close to the business district for eating and drinking. 448-668. (updated Nov 2023)

Go next

Linyi (临沂 Línyí) is a city in southeastern Shandong province, China, with a long history. It is one of the birthplaces of Chinese civilization. Mount Tai (泰山 Tài Shān) is a sacred mountain in Shandong, China, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Jinan (济南 Jǐnán) ， also known as Quancheng, Qizhou and Luoyi, is a prefecture-level city, provincial capital, sub-provincial city, mega-city and core city of Jinan metropolitan Area in Shandong Province. It is a central city in the southern wing of Bohai Sea area approved by The State Council. Qingdao (青岛; Qīngdǎo; also known as Tsingtao), is regarded by some Chinese as one of the most beautiful and cleanest cities in China.