When to Go

Spring and summer is the best time to head to the coast at Qingdao and, farther north, Beidaihe and Shanhaiguan. Save the arduous ascents of Huangshan and Taishan for autumn, when the crowds have subsided and temperatures have dropped.

The eastern region of China is heavily populated, and sometimes it seems like everyone has taken to the road (or train or plane) at once. Avoid traveling during the Chinese New Year, which is based on the lunar calendar and falls between January and March. It's also good to avoid visits here during the busy, weeklong National Day holiday at the start of October.