
Yanshou Palace is located at the southern foot of Longjing Peak in the Chashan Scenic Area of Rongcheng City. Built during the Jin Dynasty, it features a three-hall temple-style structure. Facing a deep valley in front and Yunguang Cave in the back, the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful: "A bed overlooking low clouds and trees, a window overlooking the Big Dipper." Standing there, one feels like entering a blessed paradise. Unfortunately, the simple and elegant Yanshou Palace was destroyed in war, leaving only broken stele fragments for remembrance.
The Dragon Spring Well is located within the Yanshou Palace. A lifelike stone dragon head protrudes from the north wall, from which spring water drips endlessly year after year. The water is said to be so effective in curing illness and promoting longevity that it is also known as the "Dragon Spring Divine Well."
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
Included in the Chashan Scenic Area ticket
07:30-16:30
Yanshou Palace in Weihai is a historically significant site, originally built during the Qing Dynasty. It was used for administrative purposes and is a symbol of the imperial architecture and governance of that era. The palace is renowned for its well-preserved cultural relics and architectural design that reflects the era's grandeur and traditions.
The Yanshou Palace is located in Weihai, Shandong. It can be reached by taxi or public bus from major points in the city. Weihai does not have a metro system, but the public transport options and taxis provide convenient access to the palace.
The palace is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or weekdays to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee for Yanshou Palace is typically modest. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the palace. If available, tickets for special events or exhibitions may also be purchased online in advance.
Generally, you do not need to book tickets in advance unless there is a special exhibition or event. In that case, booking tickets at least a week in advance is recommended.
A visit to Yanshou Palace typically takes around 1 to 2 hours to explore, depending on your interest in the historical exhibits and the time spent in the gardens.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and audio guides may also be available in English and Chinese. It's best to inquire about availability at the entrance.
The palace gardens offer several great spots for photography, particularly the tranquil lake and the historical architecture. The front of the main hall also makes for an excellent photo backdrop.
Start by exploring the main hall where you can learn about the palace’s history. Then, move on to the gardens for a relaxing walk. Finish your visit by taking in the detailed artwork and carvings around the palace’s inner courtyards.
Night visits and light shows are not typically offered at Yanshou Palace. However, special tours or events may be available during certain times of the year, so it's recommended to check the schedule in advance.
The palace is generally less crowded on weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends and holidays can see more visitors, so visiting on a weekday is ideal for a quieter experience.
The palace has basic facilities including toilets, water stations, and a small rest area. However, there are no large restaurants or food courts inside, so it’s advisable to bring snacks or visit nearby eateries.
The palace is accessible for elderly visitors and families with children, though some areas may have stairs. Disabled visitors should check ahead for specific accessibility information.
Both cash and mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are accepted for purchases inside the palace. Credit cards may not be accepted in all areas.
There are no major restaurants inside the palace, but nearby Weihai offers various restaurants with both Chinese and international cuisine. Local eateries around the palace serve fresh seafood and traditional Shandong dishes.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants. Halal food may also be found in some local eateries offering Muslim cuisine.
Several hotels are located near Yanshou Palace, including Weihai International Hotel and Weihai Haiyu International Hotel, offering convenient access to the palace.
There is a small gift shop at the palace selling literature-related souvenirs, local handicrafts, and historical books. Nearby markets also sell traditional Chinese crafts and trinkets.
After visiting the palace, you can easily continue your trip by taxi or public bus. Weihai’s public transportation system is efficient, and taxis are readily available for further exploration.