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explore
Yantai lies in northeastern Shandong province. Yantai, which means “Smoke Terrace”, was a small fishing village during the Ming Dynasty. Wolf-dung fires were lit on today’s Yantai Hill to warn the fishing fleets of approaching pirates during the Ming Dynasty. However, the arrival of the British and many other western nations in the late 19th century, turned what was once a backwater into a busy port. Taking advantage of its geographical location on China’s coast, near the entrance to the Bay of Bohai, Yantai has developed into a very important harbor in China, and one of the three most prosperous and fastest developing cities in Shandong Province. Surprisingly, it’s only recently that the city has become popular with travelers.
Yantai Highlights
Kunyu Mountain offers awe inspiring scenery. The mountain is covered by lush, ancient trees, among which flow numerous clear streams. Countless mysterious and deep gorges largely remain untouched by human beings. The original ecosystem is well-preserved, making the charming and inviting natural beauty worthy of your appreciation. The mountain lays claim to over 1000 species of plants and animals.
Mount Kunyu is also famous for its religious and cultural heritage. It was revered by both Taoist monks and Chinese emperors, who came in search of the elixir of life, the belief in the existence of which was widespread at the time. Kunyu Mountain is the perfect tourist destination all year round. In Spring, green valleys are filled with wild flowers. In Summer, its cool temperatures make it the an ideal escape from the heat. In Autumn, orange maple trees and dark green pine needles create a riot of colours. While in winter, the land is a blanket of white.
Moushi Manor is as old as the city itself. It is the residence of generations of Mou Molin Family, the wealthiest and most powerful landlord of the Qing Dynasty. It is also the best-preserved and is typical of the homes of landlords of the Qing Dynasty. The manor contains six courtyards, covering an area of 20,000 square meters, with over 480 rooms. The buildings are colorful and adorned with flowers and animals.
River tiles of different colors give the walls the look and pattern of a tiger. Not surprisingly, these walls are called “tiger walls”. Legend has it that coins were inserted in between the tiles to fill the space between them and the smoothness of the whole wall. The most resplendent wall in the complex is made of 386 hexagon- shaped tiles. Each of the 386 tiles bears a hexagonal flower made of pebbles. Together the 386 tiles form a large mural comprising hundreds of flowers.
Yantai, may be on the road less traveled but it won’t disappoint the traveler. If anything, it will surprise and reward you with many delightful memories.
Do’s:
• Bring a convertor because the voltage for China is 220V.
• Remember to ask for bottled or mineral water. Tap water is not potable in China.
• Visit historical sites and immerse yourself in the Chinese culture.
Don’ts:
• It’s best to exchange your money only in a bank.
• Tipping is not commonly practiced here. However, for those taking trips with guides and drivers, tipping is expected.
HOW TO GET THERE
You can fly to Yantai from Beijing. A number of airlines are available including Shandong Ailines, Air China, and China Eastern Airlines. Not all airlines have daily flights.
stay
A525 Ramada Plaza Hotel Yantai
Although Yantai is located in North China, monsoons regulate the climate, keeping it warm and humid. The average annual temperature is 250C. Exquisite fruits and vegetables are plentiful in Yantai. The long coastline and over 60 islands richly reward seafood lovers with a bounty of sea-cucumbers, abalones, scallops, crabs and prawns. The picturesque city was named by the United Nations as one of the most inhabitable places in the world.
Taste of China
Yantai is the birthplace of Lu Cuisine (i.e., one of the eight famous regional cooking schools of China, the other seven are the Cantonese, the Chuan, the Hui, the Mei, the Su, the Xiang and the Zhe schools of cuisine). Traditional Lu dishes figure prominently in the restaurants throughout Yantai, though Lu Cuisine is far from being the only type of cuisine available. In recent years, seafood dishes have outstripped Lu Cuisine in popularity. In addition, wheaten food such as noodles and dumplings are common.
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Waiting to be Explored Yantai
ENDLESS VACATION 11
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