Winter is at the doorstep of the Laoshan Mountain scenic area in Qingdao. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

If you ever visit Qingdao, be sure to take a stroll along the secluded paths of Laoshan Mountain in the city's Laoshan district, which are shrouded in mist and surrounded by lush greenery.

Named for its mountains and proximity to the sea, Laoshan district boasts unique natural landscapes and rich historical culture, making it a focal point for tourism resources and development in Qingdao.

Currently, Laoshan district is home to a national scenic area, a national 5A-level tourist attraction, a national tourist resort, and three 4A-level tourist attractions. The district also has seven national industrial and agricultural tourism demonstration sites, two national key rural tourism villages, and over 110 provincial-level rural tourism titles.

Laoshan has been recognized as one of the first national, all-region tourism demonstration zones, one of China's top 100 districts for comprehensive tourism strength, a model area for cultural and tourism integration, and one of China's most beautiful green leisure tourism destinations. In 2023, the district welcomed 24.41 million visitors, generating a revenue of 17.77 billion yuan ($2.45 billion).

As seasons change, the lush greenery transforms into a kaleidoscope of vibrant hues at Laoshan Mountain in Qingdao. [Photo by Wang Shengliang/WeChat account: laoshan88896889]

In recent years, Laoshan district has innovated while sticking to its core principles, in order to continually strengthen the advantages of the Laoshan scenic area in its quest to become a world-class tourist destination.

Embracing the principle of "green mountains and clear waters are as good as mountains of silver and gold," Laoshan scenic area prioritizes ecological protection and green development, firmly upholding its responsibility for ecological civilization. The area has been recognized with a number of national honorable titles, including National Forest Park, and one of China's first Natural Oxygen Bars.

Nestled in the eastern part of Qingdao, Laoshan Mountain unveils its enchanting beauty as autumn descends upon its slopes. [Photo by Wang Shengliang/WeChat account: laoshan88896889]

In Laoshan scenic area, the visitor experience is always improving. The area has established a smart tourism system, online ticket sales, and panoramic displays. In 2023, the area was recognized as a model smart tourism scenic spot in Shandong province and Qingdao.

By deeply exploring historical and cultural elements and enriching tourism formats, Laoshan district accelerates the integration of culture and tourism.

"Currently, Laoshan scenic area is focused on crafting a model area for the inheritance and development of traditional culture, promoting the new development of Laoshan culture and creating a culturally rich and distinctive cultural tourism service system," said Wang Chun, deputy Party secretary of Laoshan district.