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Nanchangshan Island is located at the southern end of Changdao County, Yantai City, Shandong Province. It covers an area of 12.8 square kilometers and has a coastline of 20.02 kilometers. It is the largest island in Shandong Province.
Another wonder of Changdao is the Migratory Bird Pavilion. Nestled atop Fengshan Mountain, nestled amidst the lush pine forest, the pavilion is a replica of an ancient building, featuring red pillars, yellow tiles, carved beams, and painted rafters, embodying a quaint charm. Stairs and a Han Dynasty jade corridor connect the pavilion. From here, one can overlook Changdao and the Bohai Sea. In front of the pavilion stands an 8.5-meter-tall, 16.5-ton eagle sculpture, the pavilion's symbol.
In addition to its large population of migratory birds, Changdao also boasts a significant number of resident birds. It's worth noting that the Miaodao Islands' abundance of birds is largely due to the care and love of the local people. Changdao residents not only love the islands, but also the birds that share their lives. To this end, they have planted numerous trees, promoted the benefits of bird-loving, established specialized organizations, and enacted bird-loving laws. These initiatives are worthy of widespread promotion.
It has a temperate monsoon climate, and compared with inland areas at the same latitude, it has the characteristics of moderate rainfall, humid air and mild climate. It can be said that there is no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer.
Recommended one-day tour
Nanchangshan Island is known for its natural beauty and historical significance. It is an important cultural site in Yantai, featuring temples and historical landmarks. The island also offers a mix of tranquil nature spots and vibrant local traditions, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Nanchangshan Island is located off the coast of Yantai, Shandong Province. It is accessible by ferry or boat from the mainland. Visitors can take a taxi or public bus to the ferry terminal and then a short boat ride to the island.
The island is accessible year-round, but the best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. The ferry service typically operates from early morning to evening.
There is no entrance fee to visit the island itself. However, visitors may need to pay for the ferry ride to get to the island, with ticket prices available at the ferry terminal. Tickets are usually sold offline.
It is not necessary to book ferry tickets in advance, but during peak tourist seasons, it is recommended to purchase tickets a few hours before departure to avoid long queues.
To fully explore Nanchangshan Island, visitors typically spend 3 to 5 hours, depending on the activities they choose, such as hiking, visiting historical sites, or relaxing on the beaches.
Guided tours are available, usually in Chinese, and can be arranged on-site. Audio guides are not commonly offered, but local guides provide detailed explanations of the island's history and attractions.
A recommended itinerary would be to start by exploring the beaches and coastline, followed by a visit to the temples. Then, hike to the highest points for panoramic views before heading back to the ferry terminal.
Night visits are not a common feature on the island, as most activities are during daylight hours. However, the serene environment is perfect for an evening stroll along the coastline.
The island can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Basic facilities are available on the island, including public restrooms, rest areas, and small shops selling snacks and water. There are no large restaurants, so it’s advisable to bring water and food for a picnic.
The island has some accessible paths, but certain areas, particularly the hiking trails, may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It’s best to check the conditions before visiting.
Cash is commonly used on the island, but mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are accepted in most places. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it's best to carry some cash.
There are no large restaurants on Nanchangshan Island, but small seafood restaurants and cafes can be found nearby, offering fresh seafood dishes and local specialties.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some local restaurants, but the island's cuisine primarily focuses on seafood. Halal options may be limited, but they can be found in nearby Yantai city.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Yantai, with options ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. Some beachfront resorts are also located near the ferry terminal for easy access to the island.
There are souvenir shops near the ferry terminal and local vendors selling items such as keychains, postcards, local handicrafts, and seafood-related products.
After visiting Nanchangshan Island, you can take a ferry back to the mainland and then use taxis or buses to continue your journey. Yantai city is well-connected by road and public transport.
