Shandong through Lens: Discovering China’s Photographic Masterpiece
Shandong Province, located along China’s eastern coast, is a hidden gem that beckons photographers from across the globe. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and historical landmarks, Shandong truly is a paradise for photography. The diverse scenery—from tranquil springs to dynamic urban vistas—offers countless opportunities that can make any photographer’s heart race. Sunil Sharma, a photojournalist, recently embarked on an inspiring journey through this remarkable region, accompanied by a delegation of photojournalists as part of an initiative organized by the National Forum of Photojournalists (NFPJ).
The trip, which was much more than a photographic tour, included a photography exhibition titled “Flying Over the Himalayas: Nepal/Binzhou Cultural Week and Enchanting Nepal” This exhibition was a collaborative effort between renowned Chinese photographer Su Xue, the Binzhou Photographers Association, and the Nepal-China friendship forum, showcasing the cultural and photographic ties between Nepal and China.
Sharma’s travels spanned across Shandong, where he explored a multitude of breathtaking sites. From the serene, tranquil springs of Jinan to the energetic, coastal vibes of Qingdao, Shandong offers a myriad of photogenic landscapes. He visited the famous Old Town Craftsman Museum, Shandong Guojing Group, and Baijiu Museum in Zibo. In addition, the Underwater World and Zhonghai Lake Town gave him the chance to capture mesmerizing underwater scenes and scenic lakesides. Other iconic locations included Wang Suxian Village, the Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum, the Yellow River Tower, and the majestic Yu Yue Group.
In Jinan, Sharma was struck by the beauty of Baotu Spring, Spring City Square, and the peaceful Daming Lake. He also visited the historical Kong Family Mansion and Confucius Temple in Qufu, along with the ancient sites of Sun Tzu’s Art of War City and the Ancient City of Wudi in Binzhou. Meanwhile, Qingdao offered stunning vistas with its Naval Museum, Signal Hill Park, Zhanqiao Pier, and the Olympic Sailing Center—each offering a unique perspective of the city’s vibrant culture and stunning coastal beauty.
Beyond its photogenic landscapes, what Sharma found most remarkable was the hospitality and warmth of the Shandong people. Their welcoming nature added a personal touch to his photographic journey, further enriching the experience.
Sharma encourages fellow photographers to visit Shandong, an undiscovered photographic treasure that blends history, culture, and natural beauty in ways that will captivate any lens. His journey through Shandong stands as a testament to the diverse landscapes and cultural significance the region has to offer—an essential destination for photographers looking to document the world’s most awe-inspiring sights.
This trip not only facilitated cultural exchange between Nepal and China but also gave photographers the rare opportunity to explore and capture the unique beauty of Shandong, documenting its essence for the world to see.
