76.Shandong Yantai
Shandong Yantai, A Fairyland on Earth
Yantai, named the “Most Charming City in China”, rests along the coastline in northeastern Shandong. An important city in China for commerce and industry, this city is rich with both history and natural beauty. In the mid-1800s, Yantai was opened for international trade following China’s Opium Wars with Western Europe. This plunge into the worldwide market brought a wealth of foreign influence and new ideas to Yantai. The city then truly began its race to become the modern giant that stands today, with a GDP that increases over 10% annually. Of course, life was never really boring for the people of Yantai. In the 1300s, great towers were erected in the area. These towers would smoke as a warning for the people when Japanese raiders would approach the shore. In fact, these smoking towers are what gave Yantai its name (Yan = smoke, Tai = tower). Memories of this name would become very real for the Chinese again in the first half of the 20th century, as the area was controlled by the British, then the Germans, and finally by the Japanese before returning to the Chinese. Come and see the Yantai Museum to witness the city’s changes throughout time!
Though not even the capital of Shandong, Yantai commands great respect both locally and abroad. Along with Dailan across the water, Yantai serves to protect naval routes to Beijing. Long ago, a military base was constructed at Penglai to oversee all naval operations in the area. Today the area is well maintained and remains a window into China’s past. Here you will also find a number of magnificent hotels, restaurants, and themed tourist areas. Atop the Dan Cliffs in Penglai, witness an awe-inspiring statue of the 8 immortals, legendary men of old, which are revered in Taoist culture. But while you’re here, be sure to taste one of Yantai’s greatest pleasures – wine. The wine culture here developed with the injection of foreign influence and now boasts the largest and greatest production of wine in all China. The Chang Yu Wine Museum, while no longer producing wine and spirits, acts as a storage facility for the company’s wines and is the best place for visitors to do a bit of taste-testing. This alone makes Yantai a perfect destination for anyone enjoying the finer things in life. As the 2nd largest industrial city in Shandong, Yantai makes more than just great wine. This area produces more gold than any other city in China… which is really impressive when you know that China is the world’s leading exporter of gold.
Yantai is also the leading city in China for producing cellophane noodles, which are a key ingredient in a ton of recipes both in and out of the county. Additionally, Yantai is the largest exporter of pears, apples, cherries, and peanuts in the nation. Fun fact: apples didn’t exist in China until an American brought them in the late 1800s. Now, Yantai grows over 200 kinds. It’s just one example of the wonderful things nations create when they work together. Seafood holds great importance as well, considering the costal nature of the city. The ease of access to fish and other seafood has led to a variety of different flavors that all lend to the great Chinese cuisine of Shandong. At the very least, know that this is one city where you won’t go hungry.
This great city is heralded for its amazing food, drink, rich history, and friendly people. It houses China’s first aquarium and largest display of sharks. There are military museums and art exhibitions. You will find people exercising, laughing, and demonstrating ancient rituals all over the city. With everything the city has to see and do, it’s a must on anyone’s list. So come on over to Yantai, grab a bottle of wine and some fresh fruit, and kick up your feet on the beach for the most relaxing time of your life.
Local Delicacies
As part of Yantai is situated on the coast, expect to find a variety of local seafood dishes. But with fresh fruit and other local agriculture, expect to find some unforgettable meals.
Fish Dumplings
A perfect blend of savory seafood and seasonings wrapped in a light layer of dough. They can be found boiled or fried, but always delicious.
Fried Clams
The name says it all; fresh clams are brought in from the coast, fried with special seasonings, and served to make your mouth water.
Sesame Pancakes
The delightful pancakes that are found China, but with a spin of sesame flavor. You’ll wish you had them at home!
Fushan Noodles
These egg noodles are an integral and tasty part of many meals. Expect to see them more than once during your stay.
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Missing the taste of home? Yantai is quickly becoming an international hub of edible delicacies. Expect to find foreign restaurants with popular foods from the United States, Ireland, Japan, Korea, India, and more!
If you’re seeking a bit of nightlife and your legs still have energy, head out to one of the many bars and clubs in the city. Had enough wine for the day? You’ll find great selections of domestic and international beers and liquor. A few places cater specifically to foreign visitors, but don’t be shy about walking into a Chinese hub and strike up a conversation. The locals want to show off their town and make sure you have a great time, so make some new friends and explore!
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