A 6-day visa-free tour in Shandong province

Updated: Feb 19, 2019 govt.chinadaily.com.cn Print

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Day 2: historical tour in Weihai

Bounded on three sides by the Yellow Sea, Weihai is a picturesque city in the eastern tip of Shandong Peninsula. In 2003, it won a World Habitat Award for its outstanding contribution to improving habitats and city environments. It is a famous port and tourist city with more than 80 places of interest such as Liugong Island and Huaxia City.

Liugong Island is a perfect place if you are interested in China's modern history. The island, covering 3.15 square kilometers, is located on the northeastern edge of Shandong Peninsula at the mouth of Weihai Bay. It played an extremely important role in national defense. Known as the "birthplace of China's first modern navy", it was the main battlefield for the Sino-Japanese War (1894-95).

Many places of historic and cultural interest can be found on the island, including the ruins of the Warring States Period (475-221 BC) and the European architecture built when the place was occupied by Great Britain from 1898 to 1930. A replica of Dingyuan, a warship from the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) and a symbol of patriotism, is also available for visitors to pay their respects to heroic Chinese sailors.

Liugong Island [Photo/liugongdao.com.cn]

After that you can visit the Weihai Huaxia City, a large ecological culture-themed scenic area, showcasing the classic and traditional cultures of China.

Since 2003, 44 mining pits have been restored and become part of the scenic area, as part of a drive to integrate environmental improvement and tourism development. The scenic spots built on every pit have different themes, including one displaying the historic culture of the era of emperors Yao, Shun and Yu, dating back to approximately 2,600 BC.

At night you can enjoy a large open-air performance at the scenic area, which uses the landscape as part of the show to ensure the best display of local culture and traditions.