Back from Yantai, here are some honest thoughts! Visiting a city because of a song.
Hey guys 👋, is there a song that makes you long for a coastal city like a gentle sea breeze? When I hear "Yantai's sea, Yantai's sky, Yantai's stories are endless, Changyu's wine, sweet apples, and fresh seafood", the song "Yantai" uses simple lyrics and a melodious melody to outline the charming appearance of Yantai, which made me visit this charming coastal city in February. Check out my travel guide!
🌆 Yantai Impressions
Yantai is like a bright pearl 💎 embedded in the coast of the Bohai Sea, with beautiful scenery of mountains and sea. In February, Yantai is still in winter, but the sun is shining, and there is already a hint of warmth. The lighthouse on Yantai Mountain stands quietly, overlooking the city and the sea; Binhai Road is winding and long, with the endless sea on one side and lush mountains and forests on the other; the streets and alleys are filled with the fresh fragrance of mackerel dumplings and seaweed buns, and the combination of tradition and fashion makes every corner exude a unique charm that is fascinating.
🚗 Transportation Guide
✈️ Plane: After arriving at Yantai Penglai International Airport, there are airport buses to various bustling areas in the city, and you can also transfer to buses or taxis. It takes about 40-50 minutes to reach the city center and start your wonderful journey.
🚌 City transportation: Yantai buses can be paid with Alipay or WeChat ride code, which is convenient for travel. If you want to go for a ride by the sea, rent a bicycle and ride along the coast to enjoy the sea breeze and sunshine. If you want to go to Penglai Pavilion and other suburban attractions, you can take a special bus at the bus station.
🗺 Travel Route
Day 1: Yantai Mountain - Changyu Wine Culture Museum - Binhai Square - Chaoyang Street - Suochengli
Day 2: Penglai Pavilion - Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea Scenic Area - Sanxianshan Scenic Area - Powerlong Plaza (for food and shopping)
Day 3: Yangma Island - Fisherman's Wharf - Return to Nanhong Street to buy specialties
🌟 Must-visit Attractions
1. Yantai Mountain: It is a witness to the history of Yantai, with buildings of various styles from different countries. The lighthouse and the former consulate sites are scattered, and walking among them is like traveling through time and space, feeling the vicissitudes of a hundred years. Climb the lighthouse and overlook the sea and city scenery, which is in harmony with the coastal scenery depicted in "Yantai".
2. Penglai Pavilion: A representative of the "fairyland on earth", the ancient buildings are magnificent, and being in it is like being in a fairyland. The legendary Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea set off from here, listening to stories, enjoying the sea view, and experiencing the mysterious romance of Yantai.
3. Yangma Island: The sea is clear, and the sand is fine. Although you can't go into the sea in February, you can ride around the island, admire the sea erosion landforms, watch the waves hitting the rocks, feel the tranquility and magnificence of the island, and be intoxicated by the wonders of nature.
4. Changyu Wine Culture Museum: Learn about the history of wine making, taste fine wine, feel the unique charm of Yantai as a wine city, and start a cultural journey on the tip of your tongue.
Practical Guide
🎫 Tickets are required for attractions such as Penglai Pavilion, Sanxianshan, and Changyu Wine Culture Museum. You can book in advance on the official WeChat account or major travel platforms, which often offer discounts and save you the trouble of queuing on-site. Yantai Mountain, Binhai Square, and other places are open for free, so you can enjoy yourself. The opening hours of each attraction are different, so be sure to check the official website before traveling, arrange your itinerary reasonably, and don't run empty.
🍱 Food Recommendations
1. Mackerel Dumplings: A specialty of Yantai, the mackerel filling is delicious and juicy, and the dumplings are big and full. Take a bite, and you will taste the sea, starting a day full of energy.
2. Seaweed Buns: The seaweed is tender, paired with pork belly, wrapped in chewy dough, and steamed to release a fragrant aroma. It is a popular street snack that you will fall in love with after one bite.
3. Penglai Noodles: The noodles are as thin as hair, and the broth is delicious, made with seafood. Have a bowl in the morning, warm and satisfying, and experience the authentic taste of Yantai.
4. Braised Sea Cucumber with Scallion: As a classic Shandong cuisine, the sea cucumber is soft and glutinous, and the scallion is fragrant. Taste high-end seafood dishes and experience the essence of Yantai cuisine.
🏨 Hotel Accommodation
1. Zhifu District Hotel: We recommend Yantai Golden Gulf Hotel in Zhifu District, Yantai. It is conveniently located near attractions such as Yantai Mountain and Binhai Square. Some rooms offer sea views, and the surrounding facilities are complete. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the service is first-class. It is convenient to travel and can quickly reach the city attractions.
2. Penglai District Hotel: Penglai Pavilion Hotel in Penglai District is cost-effective, close to Penglai Pavilion, Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea Scenic Area, etc. After a day of play, you can quickly return to your room to rest. The hotel facilities are complete, and the dining is rich, and you can also enjoy the city scenery of Penglai District.
3. Muping District Hotel: If you choose to stay overnight on Yangma Island, Longhu Holiday Hotel in Muping District has a beautiful environment and is close to the scenic area. Some rooms offer views of the island or the sea. The hotel facilities are complete, and you can enjoy a comfortable vacation.
💡 Tips
1. The temperature difference between morning and evening in Yantai in February is large, so remember to bring a warm coat to wear in the morning and evening to prevent catching a cold.
2. When tasting Yantai cuisine, the taste is salty and fresh. If you are not used to it, you can communicate with the waiter in advance to adjust it to ensure you enjoy your meal.
3. Pay attention to safety when playing by the sea, follow the regulations of the scenic area, protect the environment, and travel in a civilized manner.
Guys, Yantai is wonderful because of "Yantai". Hurry up and plan your coastal trip 💖!