Shandong county's captivating natural landscapes allure travelers

Linshu county in Shandong is home to a stunning tourist destination featuring golden riverbanks and sprawling chestnut forests. The picturesque landscape, characterized by vast expanses of lush greenery and the meandering banks of the Shuhe River, paints an enchanting scene for visitors to behold.

A bird's-eye view of the golden riverbank and green chestnut forest along the Shuhe River in Linshu county. [Photo by Chen Xiaoting/for chinadaily.com.cn]

Positioned on the eastern side of the Shuhe River's northern sector, the harmonious blend of the golden riverbank and verdant chestnut forest stretches from Qingyun town in the south to Liuzhuang village in the north. Encompassing over 1,333 hectares, the forest boasts nearly 5 million chestnut trees, many of which were planted during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911) and continue to thrive to this day.

The chestnut forest unveils its beauty through the seasons: a sea of blossoms in spring, flourishing greenery in summer, bountiful fruits in autumn, and a serene white wonderland in winter.

According to experts, the banks of the Shuhe River contain a high amount of sand, creating a highly breathable and permeable environment conducive to nutrient transformation. The large temperature fluctuations and numerous pores in the soil also favor fruit growth. This is why the chestnuts here are large, have thin shells, taste sweet, and have a long shelf life, making them an excellent choice for gifting. (Edited by Zhang Ying)