Yantai rides wave of marine tourism

Yantai in East China's Shandong province is turning its coastal heritage into a new engine of tourism, with night cruises, island resorts, and ocean ranching platforms reshaping its seaside appeal.

On July 20, the "Xunxian" night cruise set out from Penglai district, offering a unique after-dark journey along the Golden Coastline. Inspired by the tale of the Eight Immortals, the cruise passes landmarks like Penglai Pavilion and the Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea Scenic Area, where live performers bring the legend to life, engaging passengers in ancient games and immersive storytelling.

Island tourism is also accelerating. On July 28, Kongtong Sacred Land on Kongtong Island began trial operations. Drawing inspiration from the Classic of Mountains and Seas and the folklore of the Eight Immortals, the resort features five themed zones, over 300 live performances, and two major stage shows, making it China's first immersive fantasy resort destination on the sea.

Kongtong Sacred Land is China's first immersive fantasy resort destination, blending mythology with nature on the sea. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Yangma Island is striving to become a national-level resort, with upgraded roads, new parking lots, and scenic photo spots drawing around 1,000 visitors daily. Changdao Island is also advancing its bid for national 5A-level status.

The city is also pioneering marine ranching as a new tourism model. The "Genghai No 1" marine ranch complex, located off the coast of Laishan district, combines smart aquaculture with sightseeing, dining, and family-friendly activities, welcoming over 150,000 visitors annually.

The "Genghai No 1" marine ranch complex combines smart aquaculture with sightseeing, dining, and family-friendly activities. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

From offshore cruises to island retreats, Yantai is charting a bold course into the blue economy, turning its ocean heritage into a thriving tourism industry.