Yantai

What are the most recommended things to do in Yantai?

  • Visit Penglai Pavilion, a historic seaside complex with stunning views of the Bohai Sea.
  • Relax at Yantai Hill and enjoy panoramic views of the city and coastline.
  • Explore Changyu Wine Culture Museum and taste local wines.
  • Stroll along Yantai Bay and enjoy beach activities.
  • Hike Fushan Mountain Scenic Area for nature trails and temples.
  • Shop at the local markets and try fresh seafood.
  • Take a boat tour to nearby islands for scenic photography.

Introducing Yantai

Yantai, a prefecture-level city in Shandong Province, is one of the central cities of the Shandong Peninsula and a key port city in the Bohai Rim region. Located in the northeastern part of the Shandong Peninsula, it borders Weihai to the east, Weifang and Qingdao to the west, the Yellow Sea to the south, and the Bohai Sea to the north. It faces the Liaodong Peninsula and faces Dalian across the sea.

Yantai is an important node city in the Bohai Rim Economic Zone, a backbone city in the Shandong Peninsula Blue Economic Zone, one of the first 14 coastal open cities in China, a coastal city in China, the only international grape and wine city in Asia, a port city that is a key construction project in the national strategy of the "Belt and Road Initiative", a national historical and cultural city, a national civilized city, and one of the famous "snow nests" in China, along with Weihai.

Climate and best time to travel

Nestled between mountains and the sea, Yantai enjoys a pleasant climate, with mild winters and mild summers, and an average year-round temperature of around 12°C. It is a renowned summer resort and leisure destination in northern my country. April to October is the peak season for Yantai tourism, featuring the March Three Pagodas Mountain Festival, the Kunyu Mountain Spring Outing Festival, the Laiyang Pear Blossom Festival, and the Laizhou Rose Festival. Summer is the perfect time to escape the heat at seaside destinations like Changdao and Golden Beach, where delicious seafood abounds.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Penglai Pavilion

It has always been known as the Penglai Fairyland. There is a mythological legend about the Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea. It is said that immortals once lived here. There are many ancient buildings on the island. It is a scenic spot that emphasizes both humanistic architecture and history.

Long Island

The numerous reef cliffs and the lush trees, flowers and plants on the island are all very fascinating. There are also many ancient buildings, especially the beautiful sunrise and sunset scenes here, which are particularly magnificent.

Sanxian Mountain Scenic Area

There are large areas of antique buildings in the entire scenic area. The buildings are relatively delicate, magnificent and majestic. There are many pavilions and towers of various kinds, with dragon carvings and wall paintings. You can appreciate many precious wood carvings, jade carvings and other different handicrafts while walking through them.

Ocean Polar World

Stroll through the underwater tunnel and get close to a variety of marine animals, including rare fish, jellyfish, seals, penguins, polar bears, and more. You can also see wonderful performances by sea lions, dolphins, and mermaids.


Recommended number of days for visiting: about 3 days


Most Popular FAQs for Yantai

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Yantai is a coastal city in Shandong with a rich maritime history, known for its role in trade, fishing, and wine production. It features a blend of modern urban development and historical sites, including ancient pavilions, temples, and colonial architecture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

  • Location: Northeastern Shandong Province, China, on the Bohai and Yellow Sea coast.
  • By air: Yantai Penglai International Airport connects to major Chinese cities.
  • By train: Yantai has a high-speed rail station connecting to Qingdao, Jinan, and Beijing.
  • By bus or taxi: Local buses and taxis are widely available for intra-city travel.
  • Walking: Many scenic spots are pedestrian-friendly, especially along the coastline.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

  • Most attractions are open from 8:00–17:30.
  • Best times: Late spring to early autumn (May–October) for pleasant weather and coastal scenery.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

  • Penglai Pavilion: around ¥80, tickets available online or at the entrance.
  • Yantai Hill: around ¥50, purchased offline.
  • Changyu Wine Museum: approximately ¥60, tickets at the museum or online booking.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is recommended during weekends or public holidays. A few days in advance is sufficient for most attractions.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Two to three days are recommended to explore the main attractions and enjoy the coastal scenery.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Penglai Pavilion and its surrounding gardens.
  • Yantai Hill and lighthouse area.
  • Changyu Wine Culture Museum.
  • Yantai Bay and local beaches.
  • Fushan Mountain Scenic Area.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese; English tours may be arranged in advance at major attractions. Audio guides are occasionally offered.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Penglai Pavilion overlooking the sea.
  • Yantai Hill lighthouse for panoramic city and coastal views.
  • Sunset views along Yantai Bay.
  • Fushan Mountain trails and temples.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Day 1: Visit Penglai Pavilion and nearby coastlines.
  • Day 2: Explore Yantai Hill, Yantai Bay, and local markets.
  • Day 3: Visit Changyu Wine Museum and Fushan Mountain Scenic Area.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night views along Yantai Bay and Yantai Hill are popular; some seasonal light displays may be available at Penglai Pavilion and Yantai Hill.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

  • Peak crowds during summer holidays and public holidays.
  • Least crowded: weekdays in spring and autumn.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

  • Public toilets and rest areas at all major attractions.
  • Restaurants, cafes, and street food near tourist spots.
  • Shops selling souvenirs, snacks, and drinks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main attractions like Penglai Pavilion and Yantai Hill have accessible paths, though some hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children-friendly areas are available.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; carrying some cash is recommended for small vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Seafood restaurants along Yantai Bay.
  • Local Shandong cuisine eateries.
  • Cafes and bakeries near Yantai Hill and downtown areas.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available; halal options are limited but can be found in select restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Luxury hotels along Yantai Bay.
  • Mid-range hotels near downtown and Penglai Pavilion.
  • Guesthouses and boutique accommodations near scenic spots.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Penglai Water City (historical town with seaside views).
  • Yantai Wine Region tours.
  • Beizhen Mountain Scenic Area.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

  • Local seafood products and dried goods.
  • Shandong-style handicrafts and wines.
  • Postcards, small crafts, and cultural items from Penglai Pavilion and Yantai Hill.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • High-speed train or bus connections to Qingdao, Jinan, and Beijing.
  • Car or taxi for nearby scenic area trips.
  • Local ferry services to nearby coastal islands.