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The Seaweed House is a unique spot where visitors can explore exhibits about the local marine life and the ecological importance of seaweed. You can learn about sustainable practices in marine agriculture, visit the seaweed gardens, and participate in interactive activities related to the ocean. There are also opportunities to try seaweed-based products and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
On Jiming Island, you'll find many of the most pristine and maritime-inspired dwellings of the Jiaodong Peninsula—seaweed houses. Their pale earthy exteriors resemble thatched houses, but they're actually quite different. Their roofs are made of dried seaweed scooped from the seabed, creating a sturdy structure that only needs repairs every decade or so. They're warm in winter and cool in summer. In the past, only the more affluent could afford such houses.
Rongcheng is located on the coast, with rainy and humid summers and snowy and cold winters. Under such special geographical location and climatic conditions, the main considerations for residential buildings are to keep warm in winter and to avoid rain and sun in summer. Therefore, the extremely intelligent local residents, based on the unique architectural experience accumulated in their long-term lives, built seaweed houses with thick stones to build walls and used dried seaweed as roof materials.
It has a temperate continental semi-humid monsoon climate with distinct four seasons, moderate cold and hot seasons, synchronized light and temperature, and simultaneous rain and heat. Spring is dry and windy, summer is hot and rainy, autumn is sunny and refreshing, and winter is cold and snowy.
It is recommended to play for one hour
The Seaweed House in Weihai focuses on educating visitors about the ecological and economic importance of seaweed farming in the region. The facility showcases the vital role seaweed plays in marine ecosystems and its uses in various industries, such as food and medicine.
The Seaweed House is located in Weihai, Shandong Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi or private car from the Weihai city center. Public transportation options like buses may also be available, depending on your exact location.
The Seaweed House is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the off-peak seasons, particularly in the spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists.
The entrance fee is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through various online platforms that offer discounted rates, especially during off-peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. It’s best to book at least 1-2 days ahead if you plan to visit during busy times.
A visit to the Seaweed House typically takes around 1 to 2 hours, including time for the exhibits, outdoor areas, and interactions with staff. If you plan to explore the surrounding area or participate in extra activities, an additional hour may be needed.
The must-see areas include the interactive exhibits about seaweed farming, the marine life displays, and the beautiful seaweed gardens. Visitors can also explore the educational sections that highlight the environmental and health benefits of seaweed.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some guides offering basic English services. Audio guides in multiple languages are provided, including English, for a more in-depth experience.
The best photography spots are the seaweed gardens, the exhibit halls with colorful marine life displays, and the exterior of the Seaweed House, which offers a great view of the surrounding marine environment.
Start with the outdoor seaweed gardens to enjoy the natural beauty, then head indoors to explore the exhibits on seaweed farming and marine life. Conclude with a visit to the interactive areas where you can engage with the displays.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not available. Special tours may be offered during holidays or festivals, showcasing unique marine events or providing more detailed insight into sustainable farming practices.
The Seaweed House tends to be less crowded during weekdays and off-peak seasons like early spring or late autumn. Weekends and national holidays tend to be busier, especially in the summer.
There are toilets, water stations, and rest areas on-site. A small café offers refreshments, and there are souvenir shops where visitors can purchase seaweed-based products or souvenirs related to the attraction.
The Seaweed House is accessible for children, elderly, and disabled visitors. The main areas are wheelchair-friendly, though some of the outdoor gardens may have uneven terrain.
Mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted, as well as credit and debit cards. Cash payments are also accepted, but it is more convenient to use mobile payment options.
Inside the Seaweed House, there is a small café offering light refreshments. Nearby, visitors can find local restaurants serving seafood, such as Weihai's famous fish dishes, within a short drive from the site.
Vegetarian options are available, but vegan and halal choices may be limited. Nearby restaurants in Weihai offer a broader range of vegetarian and vegan food options.
There are several hotels in Weihai city, including Weihai International Hotel and other mid-range accommodations, which are a short drive away from the Seaweed House.
Nearby attractions include the Weihai International Bathing Beach, Liugong Island, and the Weihai Marine Park. These can easily be combined in a day trip after visiting the Seaweed House.
There are small souvenir shops at the Seaweed House selling local crafts, seaweed-based products like snacks or cosmetics, and marine-themed souvenirs such as keychains and postcards.
After visiting the Seaweed House, the best transportation options include taxis or private cars. Public buses are available, or you can rent a bike or car to explore nearby attractions like the Weihai International Bathing Beach.
