( CNN ) -- Qingdao , famously known as the home of Tsingtao Beer and fine beaches , has found another way to attract tourists -- plants . The coastal city on China 's eastern Shandong Province is hosting the 2014 International Horticultural Expo . The Expo , which opened on April 25 , is expected to attract 12 million visitors before it closes on October 25 . With the theme `` From the Earth , For the Earth , '' it features gardens and pavilions specially constructed on one end of the Laoshan Mountain , one of the most sacred Taoist destinations in China . `` This event is an opportunity to promote the image of our city , exchange experiences on horticultural techniques and products across the globe and raise public awareness on ecological and environmental protection , '' said Expo organizer Zhu Yuetao . Once a mining region , the Expo area has been transformed into a 241-hectare Disneyland-style complex featuring exhibits , water parks , rides and live performances . `` People from all over the world will come to Qingdao , and when they see what I have seen , they will be delighted , '' said Tim Briercliffe , secretary general of the International Association of Horticultural Producers . `` Millions of people will be inspired and the benefits will be enjoyed today and by future generations . '' Rare plants on display . Qingdao has invited plant lovers and garden experts from 37 countries and regions , as well as Chinese provinces and cities , which have set up various pavilions . It 's even attracted the participation of the North Koreans , who have brought samples of Kimilsunglia and Kimjongilia orchids , named after late leaders Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il . Another pavilion displays nearly 2,000 rare or new strains of plants , including specimens from tropical and temperate zones . Another special attraction is the Swedish pavilion , which highlights the life of Swedish scientist Carl von Linne , father of modern botany and taxonomy . Visitors can hit up the Ice Bar , which recreates a visit to Sweden 's famed Ice Hotel . `` The whole bar is made of ice and inside you will be given provisional parkas and gloves so you can lift a nonalcoholic drink from a glass also made of ice , '' said Lars Freden , Sweden 's ambassador to China . `` The Expo is one of the biggest exhibitions in China now , and I personally love Qingdao . '' Freden first visited the city in 1980 . From 'shabby ' mines to ecological wonders . Organizers say the Expo is meant to promote innovation in city planning and popularize a healthy , eco-friendly lifestyle . A section of the Expo is dedicated to eco-friendly technologies , such as an energy-saving water recycling system and waste-processing technologies . A botanical garden was designed to operate with a low carbon climate control system to regulate temperature for various plant-growing climates . The Expo is credited with transforming the site , which used to be dotted with mining pits notorious for degrading land and vegetation . `` By turning this shabby mining zone into an ecological city , we hope that both the city and the public will be more aware of how to maintain the balance between people and nature , '' said Jiang Zehui , a Beijing-based official who attended the opening ceremony . Organizers say events such as the Expo benefit tourists and local residents alike . `` As you can see , the trash is gone , the road is clean , '' said Wu Zhiqiang , an urban planning professor of Shanghai 's Tongji University and the chief Expo designer . Wu was one of the main designers of the Shanghai Expo in 2008 . Visitor info . Tickets to the Expo range from 60 yuan ( about $ 10 ) for evening admission to 120 yuan for single-day admission . Tourists can also get group and student passes . Cable cars and electric golf carts are available for a fee . For more info on displays and events visit Qingdaoexpo2014.org .
Taoist coastal city Qingdao hosting October 25 International Horticultural ` From the Earth , For the Earth . Expo ends 2014 ; 12 million visitors expected . The Expo 's 241-hectare Tongji University -style complex features exhibits , rides and live performances .