Rizhao shoreline restored, transformed into vibrant greenway popular among tourists

Editor's note: This year, the People's Republic of China will celebrate its 75th anniversary, marking a crucial year for achieving the goals and tasks outlined in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25). China Daily is publishing a visual series focusing on the high-quality development of various fields, capturing the process of Chinese-style modernization through photographic images. This week, we are highlighting a coastal greenway built in Rizhao, Shandong province.

The coastal city of Rizhao in Shandong province has prospered as a major port in East China.

In recent years, Rizhao has restored and improved its coastline, creating the 28-kilometer Sunshine Coast Greenway, while preserving its pine forests, sandy beaches, rocky shores and coastal wetlands.

The Sunshine Coast Greenway connects over 10 scenic spots, linking multiple coastal communities, and features viewing platforms and exercise trails. It has become a multifunctional strip of coastline attracting many residents and tourists for holidays and leisure activities.

However, just a few years ago, the area was barren saline-alkali land with aquaculture ponds that had lost their ecological functions. It was a place to be avoided.

Following the principle of "Relying on the original appearance and on-site design", the construction of the greenway did not disturb a single pine tree, rock formation or sandy beach, according to the local government.

Now, experiencing the restored greenway, one feels like they are strolling through a painting. It has become a popular destination for couples taking wedding photos and for tourists to capture memorable moments.