How to get to Rizhao

Located on the shores of the Yellow Sea in Shandong Province, Rizhao is often called the "City of Sunshine" for its golden beaches and favourable ecology. It is a modern resort offering tourists a relaxing holiday, fresh seafood, and picturesque views, far from the noise of megacities. You can get here in various ways: the city is served by its own airport, a network of high-speed trains, and convenient motorways connecting it with other regions of China.

The fastest way to reach the coast is by air via Shanzihe Airport (RIZ). It receives flights from many major cities in the country and is located quite close to the city centre, allowing you to save travel time.

If a direct flight is not available, it is convenient to fly to neighbouring major hubs: airports in the cities of Qingdao or Lianyungang, located approximately 100 km away. You can also consider arriving in Linyi, from where it is easy to continue the journey by ground transport.

Rail travel is one of the most comfortable options for a trip to Rizhao. The city is served by the modern Rizhao West station, which receives high-speed trains from various corners of China, ensuring fast and convenient connections with the regions.

Travellers can easily arrive by train from neighbouring cities such as Qingdao and Lianyungang, from where the travel time is minimal. Also, the developed railway network allows for a route through Linyi, making the trip accessible and pleasant.

Bus transport remains an economical way to get to Rizhao, especially for trips from neighbouring settlements. Regular services connect the resort with cities in Shandong and Jiangsu provinces, offering tourists a budget-friendly alternative to trains.

The most popular routes run from the cities of Qingdao, Lianyungang, and Linyi. The travel time by bus may be slightly longer than by car, but it is a great opportunity to see the local landscapes on the way to the sea.

Travelling by car or taxi offers freedom of movement and comfort. The drive from the city of Lianyungang will take only about 1.5 hours, as the distance is approximately 119 km along a modern highway.

The road from other neighbouring centres will also not be tiring: the journey from Qingdao (about 149 km) or from Linyi (around 148 km) will last approximately 2 hours. This is an excellent choice for those who value schedule flexibility and convenience.

To ensure your holiday in Rizhao is carefree, it is worth preparing in advance for the specifics of travelling in China. Here are some useful tips for planning your trip.

1. Clothing and Season. Summers here are hot and humid, so choose light, breathable fabrics. However, evenings by the sea can be cool — a light jacket would be useful.
2. Digital Payments. Cash and international cards are rarely accepted. Be sure to install Alipay or WeChat Pay and link your card before departure.
3. Language Barrier. Few people speak English. Download an offline translator with voice and photo text recognition functions for communication and reading menus.
4. Transport Apps. Catching a taxi on the street is difficult. Use the DiDi app (similar to Uber) to call a car; it has a built-in chat translator with the driver.
5. Drinking Water. Tap water is not suitable for drinking. Buy bottled water or use boiled water, which is often provided in hotels for free.
6. Internet and Connectivity. Familiar Western services and social networks may be blocked. Arrange for roaming or an eSIM that supports unrestricted operation in China in advance.
7. Beach Etiquette. On weekends, the central beaches are very crowded. For a peaceful rest, it is better to choose weekdays or remote sections of the coast.

By following these recommendations, you can avoid minor difficulties and fully enjoy the hospitality and beauty of sunny Rizhao.