Myth-enshrouded 'coastal gem' attracts 24 million annual visitors

Yantai, a coastal gem set in the northeastern Shandong province, has long been famed for its natural beauty and rich mythical past.

Perched on the south bank of the Bohai Bay and the Yellow Sea, Yantai has a coastline stretching for more than 900 km, 63 islands, and a 100 km of golden sandy beaches. Its blue sea and golden coast, combined with its meandering array of islands, make the city a true wonderland.

On the Zhifu Island, part of Yantai, there are historical sites dating back more than 2000 years. The Emperor Qin Shihuang, the first emperor of the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC), is said to have landed on the island three times during his quest for the elixir of everlasting life. Climbing across Zhifu Island, overlooking the blue sea and sky and bathed in the sun's warming glow, you will understand just why the emperor believed he would find true magic here.

Looking from the east of the Zhifu Island, a string of islands are scattered across the sea, including Yangma Island (or Feeding Horse Island), which earned its name as Qin Shihuang regularly had his horses fed there. The island has now become a health resort and has been described as the "Oriental Hawaii". Nursing homes, hotels and other tourist facilities have all been established on the island.

About 60 km west of the city center are the Changshan Islands, consisting of scores of small islands. Increasing numbers of tourists are attracted here by such scenic sites as the Bird Island, the Seal Reef and the Temple of Poseidon. In the summer, apparently, mirages occasionally appear out at sea, enhancing Yantai's mysterious and enticing atmosphere. It is small wonder that ancient Chinese poets and writers depict the place as a marine wonderland.

Between Yangma Island and Sanshan Island (or Three-Mountain Island), there is a golden coast of more than 100 km, something of a rarity in China. Along the beach are a vast number of vineyards and European-style wineries. Around 30 percent of Chinese wine is produced here, making it the seventh largest grape coast in the world.

Some 50 km to the southeast of Yantai city, there is the 922.8 m high Kunyu Mountain, the highest peak on the Shandong Peninsula. The mountain features a forest of nearly 4,700-hectares, creating a large natural oxygen bar and an irresistible leisure travel destination.

Pleasant climate, humid sea breezes, mountains and oceans, grape wine and more than 100 kinds of delicious seafood all combine to make Yantai a colorful city for tourists.

Yantai has received a number of honors, including a United Nations Habitat Award and China Habitat Environment Award, both of which help to attract more tourists from home and abroad. The city now welcomes more than 24 million tourists annually.