I thought Qingdao was beautiful until I visited Weihai...
Weihai is a beautiful coastal city that attracts many visitors with its clean coastline, fresh air, and rich historical culture. Here's a detailed Weihai travel guide covering attractions, food, transportation, and accommodation tips:
---
### **I. Best Time to Visit**
- **May-October**: Summer is perfect for coastal activities, warm water for swimming and diving; fall offers cool weather ideal for hiking and photography.
- **Avoid July-August peak season**: If you prefer fewer crowds, visit in September-October when there are fewer tourists and seafood is at its best.
---
### **II. Must-Visit Attractions**
**1. City Area and Coastline**
- **Liugong Island**
- **Highlights**: First Sino-Japanese War Memorial, Naval Club, Panda House (with two giant pandas on the island!).
- **Transportation**: 20-minute boat ride from Weihai Tourist Wharf, admission including round-trip ferry is about 120 yuan.
- **Tips**: Go in the morning to avoid afternoon return rush.
- **Weihai International Bathing Beach**
- **Highlights**: Fine sand, free admission, perfect for sunset walks. Cafes and seafood stalls nearby.
- **Tips**: Crowded in July-August, beach umbrellas available for rent (about 50 yuan/day).
- **Coastal Road Cycling**
- **Route**: From the bathing beach to Half Moon Bay, passing Maotou Mountain and Jingzi Fishing Village viewpoints.
- **Transportation**: Rent e-bikes (about 50 yuan/day) or use shared bikes.
**2. Rongcheng City (County-level city under Weihai)**
- **Chengshantou**
- **Highlights**: The easternmost point of the Chinese mainland, excellent sunrise viewing spot. Admission about 150 yuan.
- **Tips**: Large scenic area, wear comfortable shoes, sightseeing car available (extra fee).
- **Xixiakou Wildlife Park**
- **Highlights**: Built along mountains and sea, rich variety of animals, great for families. Admission about 160 yuan.
- **Naxianhai**
- **Highlights**: Less crowded diamond beach with windmills and artistic architecture, perfect for photos.
**3. Culture and History**
- **Weihai Huaxia City**
- **Highlights**: Large eco-cultural scenic area, features "Legend of Divine Journey" night show. Admission about 80 yuan.
- **Dingyuan Warship Scenic Area**
- **Highlights**: 1:1 replica of Beiyang Fleet's Dingyuan warship, learn about modern naval history. Admission about 50 yuan.
---
### **III. Food Recommendations**
1. **Seafood**
- **Recommended spots**: Heqing Wharf (fresh catch from fishermen), restaurants around Weigao Plaza.
- **Must-try**: Spanish mackerel dumplings, braised sea cucumber with green onions, spicy stir-fried clams, steamed crab.
2. **Korean Food**
- **Recommended spots**: Korean Food Street (Weihai's Korean community), try Korean BBQ, cold noodles, and spine soup.
3. **Local Snacks**
- Weihai Menzi, fish pot pancakes, Rushan Xi biscuits.
---
### **IV. Transportation Guide**
- **Air**: Weihai Dashuibo International Airport, about 40km from downtown, airport bus 30 yuan/person.
- **High-speed Rail**: Weihai Station (near downtown), Weihai North Station (near High-tech Zone).
- **City Transportation**: Extensive bus network (1-2 yuan), taxi flag-down rate 8 yuan; recommended to rent e-bikes for coastal road tours.
---
### **V. Accommodation Tips**
- **City Waterfront**:
- High-end: Weihai Wei Building (near Liugong Island Ferry).
- Value for money: Guesthouses near International Bathing Beach (200-400 yuan/night).
- **Rongcheng**: Resort hotels near Naxianhai (like Howard Johnson Resort).
---
### **VI. Suggested Itinerary (3 Days 2 Nights)**
- **Day 1**: Liugong Island → Dingyuan Warship → Korean Food Street dinner.
- **Day 2**: Coastal road cycling (Maotou Mountain, Half Moon Bay) → International Bathing Beach sunset.
- **Day 3**: Charter car/self-drive to Rongcheng (Chengshantou + Wildlife Park or Naxianhai).
---
### **VII. Important Notes**
1. Sun protection! Weihai has strong UV rays, bring sunscreen and hats.
2. Eat seafood in moderation to avoid stomach discomfort.
3. Buy local specialties (dried figs, dried seafood) from supermarkets to avoid tourist area markups.
---
Weihai is perfect for slow travel - enjoy the sea breeze, seafood, and the city's tranquility. If you have more time, take a boat to Hailv Island (seagull paradise) or Jimingdao Island (filming location of "Where Are We Going, Dad?") for island views. Have a great trip!
maximillian_aurelius_ravenwood