Zhenjiang to Liaocheng Drive: Gems, Routes & Tips

This route follows the G25 Changchun–Shenzhen Expressway for about 800 kilometers, crossing the Yangtze River via the Runyang Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. The drive typically takes 9–10 hours without breaks.

Known as the 'canal city' for its Grand Canal history, Zhenjiang sits on the southern bank of the Yangtze, while Liaocheng, in Shandong, is famed for its Dongchang Lake and ancient city walls. The highways are well-maintained, with service areas approximately every 50 kilometers.

The G25 is a modern expressway with clear signage and safety barriers, but fog is common in winter mornings, especially near rivers, so always use fog lights. Rest areas are equipped with clean restrooms, often including family facilities and child-friendly play areas.

Pet owners will find designated pet relief zones at most service areas, though pets must be kept on a leash. For fatigue, plan stops every two hours or 200 kilometers; the official rest areas provide shaded picnic tables and foot massage machines.

Off the highway, a hidden gem is the Xuzhou Han Cultural Scenic Area, just 20 minutes from the G25 exit, featuring the burial site of Liu Bang's ancestor. Use tools like how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities to uncover more.

Fuel costs average around 0.6 RMB per kilometer, with current petrol prices near 7.5 RMB per liter. Toll fees total approximately 320 RMB for standard cars. Service areas on the G25 offer fuel, food, and restrooms, typically open 24/7.

• Highway surfaces are in excellent condition, with posted speed limits of 120 km/h.
• Use WeChat or Alipay for electronic toll collection (ETC) to avoid queues.
• Roadside assistance is available via 12122, the national highway hotline.

The first part of the journey follows the flat Jiangsu plain, dotted with fish ponds and rice paddies, with the Huangshan Mountains visible on the horizon to the south. As you cross into Shandong, the terrain becomes hilly, known for orchards of apples and pears, especially around Linyi.

For a break, the Huai'an section offers access to the Hongze Lake wetlands, a haven for migratory birds. In Linyi, the Yimeng Mountain area is a scenic spot with dramatic granite peaks. Toward Liaocheng, the landscape flattens again, with the Dongchang Lake providing a serene backdrop to the ancient city.

Local commerce along the route includes Huaiyang cuisine in Jiangsu and Shandong's Lu cuisine, known for its use of garlic and shallots. Service areas often sell regional specialties like Huai'an's soft-shelled turtle or Linyi's fried pancakes.