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.
