Where to stay in Rizhao? JI Hotel is just right!

As a frequent traveler to Shandong, Rizhao has always been an "underrated coastal city" in my heart. This time, I stayed at JI Hotel (Rizhao Municipal Government CR Wanda Plaza Branch) and unexpectedly had a cost-effective experience. Combined with a 2-day trip to Qingdao, I've compiled this practical guide, hoping to help those planning a trip to the Shandong coast ☺️~ 🏨 Why choose this JI Hotel? 1⃣📍 Prime Location: In the heart of the city - 5-minute walk to CR Wanda Plaza (Rizhao's hottest complex, one-stop dining and shopping～) - Only 1 km from the Municipal Government/Rizhao Library, the surrounding government district is quiet and safe.☀️ - 10-minute taxi ride to Wanpingkou Scenic Area (cheaper and more convenient than seaside homestays) - High-speed rail friendly: about 20 minutes by taxi from Rizhao West Railway Station, suitable for non-self-driving tourists. 2⃣🛏️ Accommodation Experience: JI Hotel's "Philosophy of Less is More" ✔️ Rooms: Minimalist log style + smart home (Xiaomi TV, electric curtains), the bedding is comparable to five-star hotels. ✔️ Breakfast: 40 yuan/person, I recommend the freshly cooked seafood noodles + Shandong pancakes (cleaner than surrounding small restaurants) ✔️ Bonus: Free iced lemon water in the lobby, the first cup back at the hotel is super refreshing in summer～ 3⃣💰 King of Cost-Effectiveness Off-season 200-300 yuan/night (30% cheaper than similar hotels in Qingdao) Here's a travel guide✨～ 🌊 Rizhao Travel Tips (JI Hotel Surroundings Edition) 1⃣ Wanpingkou Gate 3: Free photo ops at the popular "Seaside Swing" and "Wedding Photo Base," fewer people than Gate 1! 2⃣ Sunrise Strategy: 15-minute taxi ride to "Lighthouse Square," arrive before 5 am! 3⃣ Seafood without the pitfalls: I recommend "Qian Wang Yuan Seafood Restaurant" (80 yuan per person, the steamed seafood pot is fresh😋) 4⃣ Artistic Bonus: The "Rizhao Art Museum," a 15-minute walk away, is less crowded and great for photos. Closed on Mondays! 🚄 2-Day Trip to Qingdao (1.5 hours by high-speed rail) Day1⃣：Strolling through the Old City - Morning: Zhan Bridge → St. Michael's Cathedral → University Road Graffiti Wall (three spots close together, within walking distance) - Afternoon: Xiaoyu Mountain Park overlooking red tiles and green trees → Lu Xun Park for photos on the reefs - Dinner: Street food on Taidong Walking Street, try the wild wontons + microwave-grilled meat Day2⃣：Coastal Art Route - Morning: Badaguan Scenic Area (Huashi Building is a must-see) → No.2 Bathing Beach - Afternoon: Watch the sunset at Wheat Island (fewer people than Yan'er Island) - Transportation: Download the "Qingdao Metro APP," it covers most attractions～ ⚠️ Avoid the Pitfalls Be careful with taxis in Qingdao! Didi/Subway is recommended. For seafood processing, go to "Yingkou Road Market," choose your own seafood and take it to a beer house. 📌 Summary ✅ Rizhao JI Hotel is suitable for: budget-conscious families/couples/business travelers who pursue quality ✅ Qingdao + Rizhao combined trip formula: Qingdao 2 days (culture + popular spots) + Rizhao 1 day (relaxing by the sea) ✅ Ultimate suggestion: Buy a bag of Rizhao green tea as a souvenir, there's an affordable option at the supermarket opposite the hotel～ If you also enjoy this "slow-paced" coastal city vibe, add Rizhao to your next travel list～ Feel free to discuss Shandong travel in the comments section☺️☺️☺️!