I thought Qingdao was beautiful, until I went to Weihai...
Children from the south are often fascinated by cities where snow and sea meet. Weihai is one such place, where the coolness of snow and the depth of the ocean are perfectly combined, exuding a unique charm in winter.
1. Best time to enjoy the snow and sea
Weihai is known as a "snow nest," with snow falling from December to March. During this time, snowflakes fall and turn the city into a silver fairy tale world. The most beautiful scenery is after the snow, when the white snow and blue sea contrast with each other under the blue sky, like a dream. If you come to see the snow and sea, it is recommended to check the weather forecast in advance and allow enough time to wait for a heavy snowfall before starting your ice and snow seaside trip. However, please note that flights may be affected by snow. Compared to flying directly to Weihai, it may be more reliable to fly to Qingdao and then take a high-speed train to Weihai, which can reduce the risk of travel disruption due to weather.
2. Itinerary overview
- Day 1: Start your journey from Swan Lake in Yandun Jiao, where flocks of swans play on the lake, their white feathers blending with the surrounding ice and snow to form a beautiful ecological picture. Then head to the Blue Whale Shipwreck, where the giant ship stranded at sea is covered in snow and ice, exuding a mysterious and spectacular atmosphere, like a post-apocalyptic movie. Finally, arrive at Naxianghai, stroll along the snow-covered beach, listen to the waves lapping the shore, and feel the wonderful melody of the sea and snow colliding.
- Day 2: In the morning, head to Half Moon Bay to enjoy the golden glow of the sun on the bay after the snow, then climb to the No. 2 Observation Deck on Maotou Mountain to overlook the magnificent scenery of the mountains and sea. The distant mountains are white, the nearby sea is blue, and the view is full of the wonders of nature. Then head to Yuanyao Pier, where you can find the tranquility and depth of Weihai's winter pier among the scattered boats on the shore, especially the two shipwrecks with traces of time, which are even more lonely and beautiful in the snow. In the evening, come to the Golden Bay Pier to enjoy the unique scenery of the pier in the sunset and snow, with a view at every step, like a dream.
- Day 3: Get up early and go to Torch 8th Street to capture the beauty of the pure snow-covered streets before they are trampled by tourists. The sea is in the distance, and the snow is on the street, as if you are in a fairy tale town in Northern Europe. Then come to Yuehai Park, where the seaweed houses are covered in snow and have a different flavor, contrasting with the lighthouse next to them to form a warm and peaceful picture. Then head to Weihai Park to check in at the famous "Big Frame" and capture yourself and the snowy sea in this unique frame. Finally, at Happiness Gate and Haiyuan Park, feel the unique charm of Weihai, where the humanistic atmosphere and natural beauty blend together, stroll along the coastline, and enjoy the snow-decorated rocks and waves.
3. Hidden gems
- Jingzi Village: A quiet fishing village by the sea, where the scattered houses are covered in snow and the rocks by the sea are also covered in silver. Walking through it, it seems as if time has slowed down. Here, you can feel the breath of the sea up close, listen to the sound of the waves, watch the snowflakes fall, and experience the most simple Weihai fishing village life.
- Likou Mountain: If it has snowed, this is a fairy tale world. The trees are bent under the weight of the snow, and the paths are buried in snow, like an ink painting. The homestays on the mountain are scattered, and they are even more cozy in the snow. You can have a cup of hot tea here, enjoy the snow outside the window, and enjoy a moment of peace and comfort.
4. Weihai cuisine
- Mackerel dumplings: How can you come to Weihai and not try the delicious mackerel dumplings? Fresh mackerel is minced and wrapped in chewy dumpling skin. The dumplings are tender and juicy, and a bite is full of the taste of the sea.
- Seafood potstickers: Made with a variety of fresh seafood fillings, fried until the skin is golden and crispy, the bottom is fragrant, and the filling is fresh and juicy. A bite is both crispy and fresh, and it is one of the most common dishes on Weihai people's tables.
- Lamb soup: On a cold winter day, a bowl of hot lamb soup is perfect. Weihai's lamb soup is tender and the broth is rich. Paired with crispy biscuits, it is both warming and filling, and leaves a lasting impression.
5. Accommodation guide
- Huancui District: Located in the city center, it is convenient for transportation and has complete facilities such as shopping malls and restaurants. It is convenient to visit various attractions and taste local food. There are a variety of hotels, from high-end star hotels to budget hotels, and you can choose the right accommodation according to your budget.
- Near Hanlefang: Full of strong Korean style, there are many Korean-style homestays and hotels to choose from. There are also many delicious foods around, including Korean food and snacks, and you can enjoy the lively night view at night and feel the unique nightlife atmosphere of Weihai.
6. Travel tips
- The seaside of Weihai is windy and cold in winter, so be sure to take windproof and warm measures. In addition to the necessary long down jackets, thick windproof pants, scarves, hats, and gloves, it is recommended to bring warmers to prevent the cold from invading your body.
- After snow, Weihai's public transportation may have fewer trips and longer waiting times, and it may be difficult to get a taxi. If you are traveling with a large group, you can consider renting a car, which can ensure the flexibility of your itinerary and avoid the trouble of waiting for transportation in the cold wind.
- Self-driving tourists should note that the roads may be icy after snow, so drive carefully, install snow chains in advance, control your speed, and ensure driving safety.
Weihai's winter is a feast of snow and sea, where you can slow down and feel the tranquility and beauty of nature, and have an unforgettable winter seaside trip.