As the traditional Chinese solar term chu shu (End of Heat) has now arrived, the scorching summer heat begins to fade. This gentle shift in season marks the perfect time to visit Laoshan Mountain in Qingdao, Shandong province, which is already starting to turn down the temperature while offering a refreshing natural escape.

Hiking along the lush trails feels like being treated to a forest spa, rich with invigorating negative oxygen ions. From the peaks, you can witness the breathtaking meeting of mountains and sea, where clouds swirl like a fairyland scene, and all the summer heat melts away with the sea breeze.

This season also brings a stunning surprise: the ancient crape myrtle tree at Mingxia Cave in Taiqing Scenic Area is in full bloom. Over 600 years old, this "living fossil" bursts into color with its pink-purple flowers, resembling a cascading waterfall of petals.

Standing before this ancient crape myrtle, its cascading pink-purple blossoms framed by the blue sea and green peaks, you are greeted with a spectacular view not to be missed — a fleeting, once-a-year spectacle.

As the solar term chu shu (End of Heat) has arrived, Laoshan Mountain in Qingdao enters one of its most charming seasons. [Photo/WeChat account: laoshan96616]

The mountain offers a perfect escape with its cool, refreshing air and misty sea views. [Photo by Feng Shaojiang/WeChat account: laoshan96616]

The 600-year-old crape myrtle tree at Laoshan Mountain's Mingxia Cave bursts into full bloom as early autumn arrives. [Photo by Feng Shaojiang/WeChat account: laoshan96616]