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At the Beiyang Navy Admiralty, visitors can explore the historical naval architecture, visit exhibitions related to China's naval history, and enjoy learning about the Qing Dynasty’s military heritage. A highlight is the preserved naval office building, where you can discover the role it played in China’s modernization efforts during the late 19th century.
A key historical site in Weihai is the Beiyang Navy Governor's Office on Liugong Island. In 1887, the imperial court established the Beiyang Fleet and set up a governor's office on the island, commonly known as the Beiyang Fleet Governor's Office, which served as the command center for the Beiyang Fleet.
The Admiralty's Office now houses a display room for relics from the First Sino-Japanese War, a wax museum, and the site where Ding Ruchang was martyred. It also houses the First Sino-Japanese War Museum. 200 meters east of the pier, the First Sino-Japanese War Museum uses modern technology, including electricity, light, and sound, to recreate the thrilling scenes of the First Sino-Japanese War, a unique sight in China.
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 Beiyang Navy Admiralty was the headquarters of the Beiyang Fleet, one of China's most powerful naval forces during the late Qing Dynasty. Established in the late 19th century, it played a key role in the modernization of China's military during that era. The site is significant as it marks the transition from traditional naval practices to modern naval warfare in China.
The Beiyang Navy Admiralty is located in Weihai, Shandong Province, China. You can easily reach the site by taking a taxi or public bus from the city center. The location is not far from Weihai's downtown area, so walking or cycling from nearby attractions is also a viable option.
The Admiralty is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the morning, especially on weekdays, to avoid the peak tourist crowds and enjoy the cooler weather.
Admission to the Beiyang Navy Admiralty is generally free, though there may be a nominal fee for special exhibitions or tours. Tickets can be purchased at the site, and some tickets for specific events or exhibitions may be available online through the official museum website or local ticket platforms.
Advance booking is not usually required, especially for general admission. However, it is recommended to book tickets in advance for special events or guided tours, typically 1-2 days ahead of your visit.
A visit typically takes around 1 to 2 hours to fully explore, depending on your interest in naval history and the exhibitions available at the time of your visit.
The main highlights include the preserved naval office building, historical naval exhibitions, and artifacts related to the Qing Dynasty's navy. The architecture itself is a key part of the experience, as it showcases the influence of Western-style naval design during that period.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and English-speaking guides can be requested in advance for international visitors. Audio guides may also be available in multiple languages, including English, at the site.
The best photography spots are around the Admiralty’s main building and the naval exhibition halls. The surrounding waterfront area also offers great views of the coastline and is ideal for landscape photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Start your visit with the main naval office building, then move on to the naval exhibitions to get a sense of the history. You can finish your visit by walking around the surrounding area to take in the architecture and view the naval artifacts located outside the building.
Night visits and light shows are not available at this site. However, special exhibitions or events may be held occasionally, so it’s worth checking the schedule in advance.
The Beiyang Navy Admiralty can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are typically early mornings on weekdays, especially outside of peak tourist seasons.
There are basic facilities such as toilets, water fountains, and a small café offering refreshments. There are no large restaurants or food courts on-site, but small shops selling souvenirs are available.
The site is accessible for elderly visitors and children, with paved pathways and rest areas. However, some areas may have limited access for those with mobility impairments, so it is advisable to check for accessibility details before visiting.
Cash is accepted at the site, but mobile payment methods such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used. Credit cards may not be accepted in all areas, so it's best to use mobile payments or carry cash for smaller purchases.
There are several local restaurants and cafes near the Beiyang Navy Admiralty offering Chinese cuisine, including seafood and Shandong-style dishes. For more variety, visitors can explore the city center for additional dining options.
Vegetarian options are available at some of the nearby restaurants. However, vegan and halal food options may be limited, so it’s best to inquire directly at the restaurants or plan ahead if you have dietary restrictions.
There are several hotels and accommodations close to the site, including Weihai International Hotel and local guesthouses. These options cater to a variety of budgets and are conveniently located for visitors to explore the area.
Nearby attractions include Weihai Park, Liugong Island, and the Weihai International Bathing Beach. These sites can easily be combined into a day trip for a full exploration of the area.
There are souvenir shops near the Beiyang Navy Admiralty selling naval-themed souvenirs, local crafts, and postcards. Common items include miniature ships, traditional Chinese art, and Qing Dynasty-themed memorabilia.
After visiting, taxis, buses, or rental cars are good options for continuing your journey. The local bus network is reliable, and taxis are a convenient way to explore nearby attractions.
