Wanpingkou Seaside Scenic Area

Introducing Wanpingkou Seaside Scenic Area

"If you come to Rizhao for tourism, you must visit Wanpingkou", which refers to the Wanpingkou Seaside Scenic Area. The Wanpingkou Bathing Beach is located in the scenic area, which is also the second bathing beach and one of the most popular bathing beaches in Rizhao City. The beach coastline here is very long, and it is vast and spectacular at high tide, and the sea water is very blue. However, the sand is relatively coarse, and because it is open to the public for free, it is very crowded during the peak season every year. The sea here is deep and has dangerous undercurrents, making it not suitable for swimming. Those with children should pay attention to safety. In addition to playing in the sea, there are many entertainment facilities around the scenic area, such as pirate ships, which are suitable for playing with children.

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Most Popular FAQs for Wanpingkou Seaside Scenic Area

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

Wanpingkou Seaside Scenic Area (万平口海滨风景区) is located in Rizhao (日照), Shandong province. The name “Wanpingkou” reflects its historical role: in the Yuan dynasty, this place served as a natural harbor where merchant ships would stop, because it was relatively sheltered. Today it is a major coastal scenic area and an iconic beach destination in Rizhao, embodying the city’s “blue sky, clean sea, golden sand” coastal image. The site is classified as a national 4A-level tourist attraction in China.

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

Wanpingkou is located at No. 398 Haiqu East Road (海曲东路398号), Donggang District, Rizhao, Shandong. From within Rizhao city, you can take public buses (lines 1, 5, 6, 8, or the coastal tourism special lines) to Wanpingkou Scenic Area. A taxi is also convenient. Walking is possible only if you are staying nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open year-round (i.e. the beach is always accessible). But the formal opening / ticketing hours differ by season: - In the “off-peak” period (October 11 to April 19), hours are 05:00–22:30 (last ticket 21:00) - In the “peak” period (April 20 to October 10), hours are 06:00–21:00 (last ticket 20:00) The best times to visit are in summer (for swimming) and early morning / late afternoon (for softer light, cooler temps, fewer crowds).

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

The entrance to the core scenic area is free. Some inner paid facilities (e.g. showers, special water sport services) may require fees.

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

Since general admission is free, booking is typically not required. For specific water sport experiences or special events, advanced booking might be advisable depending on demand (especially in summer), but I did not find definitive sources confirming required advance reservations.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A typical visit takes about 2–3 hours to enjoy the beach, scenery, and a few water activities. If you plan to relax, watch sunrise/sunset, or engage heavily in water sports, allocate half a day (4–5 hours) or more.

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

• The wide sandy shoreline (5 km coastline) for walking and beach play.
• The natural lagoon / cross-sea bridges region.
• The tide (or tidal) tower (潮汐塔).
• Coastal squares / seaside promenades and open plazas.
• Photography “check-in” spots (swings, sky stairs, white church, vintage props).

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

I did not find reliable evidence of standardized guided tours or audio guides in multiple languages for Wanpingkou. Many visitors explore independently. For water sport services, staff may accompany you. It’s advisable to check with local visitor centers for any tour offerings on site.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The beach gates (especially Gate 3) — known for fewer crowds and many photo props.
• From the tide tower (潮汐塔) to view coastline and sea panorama.
• Sunrise and sunset facing the open sea.
• On cross-sea bridges over the lagoon, offering reflection views.
• Photo props like swings, sky stairs, white church, etc.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

One suggested route: start from a main gate, walk along the beach toward Gate 3 (for photo-props), then head to the lagoon / bridge area, then proceed to the tide tower, and finish with a stroll on the coastal promenade / plaza. For example: Second Bathing Beach → sail/boat zone → lagoon bridges → tide tower → sunset/sea promenade. Adjust according to tide schedules and time of day.

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

After dark, seaside lighting near the lighthouse area and coastal promenades can create scenic night views. I did not find specific large-scale light shows or night tours in sources, but evening seaside promenades are popular.

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

The site is quite popular, especially in summer and on weekends/holidays. The least crowded times are early morning, weekdays (outside major holidays), and in shoulder seasons (spring / autumn). Gate 3 is often recommended as less crowded than Gate 1.

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

The park offers standard tourist facilities: toilets, bathing/shower facilities, rest areas, snack kiosks, cafes/beer bars, parking lots, and shops. There are beachside bars, restaurants, and possibly rental of umbrellas, chairs, water sport equipment.

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

Generally yes: the terrain is flat and easy to walk along the beach and promenades. Children can enjoy sand play and shallow water near shore. Some assistance may be needed for those with mobility challenges, especially on sand or bridges. I did not find explicit disabled access ramps in sources.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

For admission (which is free) cash is not needed. For paid services (showers, equipment rental, food), both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are likely accepted, consistent with common practice in Chinese tourist areas, though I did not find a definitive source confirming this.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby there are seafood restaurants and local eateries. Some named options include “Chocolate Fisherman,” “Qianwangyuan Seafood Restaurant,” etc. Inside the scenic area there are beach bars, cafes, snack kiosks, and bars for relaxing by the coast.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Specific mentions of vegetarian, vegan or halal restaurants in the immediate vicinity are not prominent in my sources. However, many seafood restaurants will also offer vegetable/plant-based dishes. In larger nearby areas, you may find vegetarian options. It is advisable to ask locally or check menus in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are close by, such as Blue Horizon International Hotel, Rizhao Sovereignty Hotel, BIBO Hotel, Yiran Hotel, Home Inn Rizhao Wanpingkou Branch, etc. For more options, one can stay in downtown Rizhao and take a short ride to the beach.

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

• Rizhao Botanical Garden (日照植物园) — directly adjacent / to the north of Wanpingkou.
• Rizhao Marine or Ocean Park (Rizhao Bay or coastal parks) — as part of the broader coastal tourism offerings.
• City promenades, local piers, nearby beaches.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, typical souvenir shops exist within the scenic area or nearby, offering seaside-themed items (shells, postcards, small crafts, local beach souvenirs). I did not find detailed lists of souvenir items in my sources.

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

After visiting, you can continue by taxi or local bus to other parts of Rizhao, or transfer to intercity buses or trains. If your next destinations are along the coast, coastal roads and buses are suitable.