This historic port city was the first on China’s eastern seaboard opened to foreign traffic. Today, the city’s main attraction is the Penglai Pavilion, legendary landing spot for the Eight Immortals.
From a distance, this pavilion makes perfect sense as a landing site. It looms over the coastline on a large precipice, literally dividing the Bohai and Yellow seas. A visit to the pavilion is followed by a tour of the Penglai Water Fortress, a Ming Dynasty stronghold that was instrumental in securing this part of China’s coastline.
Another prominent site in Penglai is the former home of Qi Jiguang. This national hero lived in the 1500s and was a staunch general who contributed to reinforcing the Great Wall as well as leading the ongoing battle against Japanese pirates. Portions of his house are open for tours, while others are set aside as museum and exhibition space.
Getting There & Away
The nearest regional airport is in Yantai and can be reached by car in less than an hour. From there, it is another hour by air to Beijing’s international airport. Rail and bus transport also links through Yantai before continuing onward. A limited number of sea links are available, though few of these are of use to tourists.
Things to Do
Penglai Attractions
- Penglai Pavilion
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One of the four great towers of china, this massive seaside structure is the defining landmark in penglai.
- Penglai Water Fortress
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Next to the pavilion is this 14th century fortress, once used to fend off japanese pirates.
- Qi Jiguang Former Residence
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The house of qi jiguang, a famous 16th century general, is open to the public for tours as well as kung fu training.