Weihai Travel Guide
Introduction: Discover Weihai’s Endless Charms
When the morning mist of Bohai Bay drifts over the reefs of Liugong Island, and the evening breeze along the Coastal Road gently brushes the clouds above Maotou Mountain, this coastal city—dubbed “China’s Maldives”—extends a azure invitation to the world.
As one of China’s most livable cities, Weihai redefines coastal getaways with its 400km coastline, 12 islands, 30 natural beaches, and 98% air quality excellence rate.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with Weihai
Stroll along Huojiuba Street’s rainbow path, where the road seems to merge with the ocean—a scene that unfolds daily here. Weihai blends Qingdao’s European charm with Yantai’s fishing village authenticity, all while preserving Rongcheng’s century-old seaweed-thatched cottages. As sunset paints the sea in tangerine hues, you’ll understand why even seagulls choose to linger.
8 Reasons to Visit Weihai
- China’s only destination combining mountains, seas, islands, springs, and beaches
- Three-time winner of “China’s Cleanest City”
- Northern China’s largest wintering habitat for swans (Nov-Mar)
- Home to China’s first national marine park
- All attractions within a 2-hour daily commute
- Seafood at 1/3 of Sanya’s prices
- Perfect fusion of Korean cuisine and Jiaodong flavors
- Over 200 sunny days annually
What to Do in Weihai
- Cycle the 15km Coastal Road auxiliary trail, linking 9 scenic viewpoints
- Explore Dongchu Island’s 650 seaweed-thatched cottages (100+ years old)
- Relax at Narshan Diamond Beach—northern China’s only AAA-rated sandy bathing spot
- Night tour of Hanlefang Night Market: 500m of authentic Korean street food
- Intertidal zone exploration: Xiaoshi Island and Shuangdao Bay recommended
Where to Eat in Weihai
| Category | Must-Try Dishes | Avg. Cost (CNY) | Iconic Spot |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seafood | Spanish mackerel dumplings / Sea cucumber rice | 60-80 | Yingxiang Weihai (Huancui District) |
| Korean | Budae jjigae / Spicy beef soup | 40-60 | Jinliwei (Hanlefang) |
| Snacks | Rushan wedding cakes / Seaweed buns | 15-25 | Gumo Morning Market (7-9 AM) |
When to Visit Weihai
May-Jun: Cherry blossom season + crystal-clear waters (18-22°C)
Jul-Aug: Peak summer (26°C avg; book accommodation early)
Sep-Oct: Autumn fishing season + maple foliage (ideal for photographers)
Nov-Feb: Swan season (Yandunjiao in Rongcheng is a must-see)
Getting to Weihai
- Plane: Weihai Dashuipo Airport (direct flights to 12 cities including Beijing/Shanghai)
- Train: Weihai Station/Weihai North Station (3.5h from Beijing, 5h from Shanghai)
- Car: Qingyin Expressway to Weiqing Expressway (2.5h from Qingdao, 1h from Yantai)
- Ferry: Overnight cruise from Dalian (7 hours)
Where to Stay in Weihai
Luxury:
- Howard Johnson Narshan Resort (within Narshan Scenic Area)
- Pullman Weihai (CBD area)
Boutique:
- Jiming Island cliff-side B&B (beside悬崖书屋)
- Likou Mountain Slow Life Homestay (surrounded by fruit trees)
Budget:
- Holiday Inn Express Weihai Center (Weigao Plaza)
- Hanlefang Theme Hotels
Where to Stay in Popular Areas
- Huancui District: Near Weihai Park/Xingfumen (city center)
- Gaoxin District: Huojiuba Street/International Bathing Beach (budget-friendly)
- Jing District: Hanlefang/Jiulongcheng (food hub)
- Rongcheng City: Narshan/Chengshantou (ideal for self-drive tours)
How to Tour Weihai
Classic 1-Day Itinerary:
08:00 Liugong Island (Museum of Jiawu War)
10:30 Xingfumen Square (seagull feeding)
13:00 Lunch at Hanlefang
15:00 Coastal Road cycling
18:30 Maotou Mountain sunset viewing
Deep 3-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Cultural tour (Huancui Tower + Weihai Museum)
Day 2: Ecological exploration (Swan Lake + Dongchu Island)
Day 3: Relaxation (Yin Beach + Daru Mountain)
Cost of Living in Weihai
| Item | Price Range (CNY) |
|---|---|
| Transport | Bus 1-2, E-bike 2/15min |
| Dining | Noodles 10-20, Seafood feast 80-150/person |
| Tickets | Liugong Island 122, Chengshantou 148 (incl. shuttle) |
| Accommodation | Hostel 50/bed, 5-star 800+ |
Conclusion: A Message to Future Weihai Travelers
When your footsteps echo on the Coastal Road’s wooden planks at dawn, when you listen to fishing folk songs beside seaweed-thatched cottages, or when you bump into international friends under Hanlefang’s neon lights—you’ll realize Weihai’s charm transcends any checklist. With its 26°C summers, 360° panoramic seascapes, and 100% hospitality, this city awaits every soul craving a slower pace. Pack your bags—the best adventures always begin with a single step.
