Located at No.8 Binhai Road, Penglai District, Yantai City, Shandong Province, the Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea Scenic Area is a national 5A-level tourist attraction covering 55,000 square meters. Based on the mythological legend of the Eight Immortals, it's surrounded by sea on three sides, shaped like a treasure gourd lying on the water, integrating classical architecture, garden art and mythology, known as the "Fairy Mountain on the Sea".
History and Culture
The legend of Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea is a widely known Chinese folk tale. After drinking at Penglai Pavilion, the eight immortals including Iron-Crutch Li, Han Zhongli, Zhang Guolao and He Xiangu displayed their magical powers to cross the sea, leaving behind the famous saying "Like the Eight Immortals crossing the sea, each showing their divine powers".
Opened in 2000, though with a short history, the area perfectly recreates the mythological scene. Its architecture combines the grandeur of northern imperial gardens with the delicacy of southern Chinese gardens, embodying the essence of traditional Chinese architectural art.
The area houses numerous cultural relics and artworks related to the Eight Immortals culture, including sculptures, paintings and crafts, vividly showcasing the rich connotation of this cultural heritage.
Main Attractions
Eight Immortals Sculpture Square
The square features large sculptures of the eight immortals, 8.8 meters high, carved from quality granite, vividly recreating the crossing scene. Each immortal's posture and expression are distinctive and lifelike.
Huixian Pavilion
The main structure standing 42 meters tall with five floors in Ming-Qing architectural style. It displays numerous cultural relics and artworks related to the Eight Immortals, and offers panoramic views of the area and Yellow Sea.
Wangying Tower
Located on the east side, it's the best spot for sea views. The tea house inside allows visitors to enjoy tea while admiring the magnificent "sea and sky blending into one" scenery.
Eight Immortals Bridge
Spanning 88 meters east-west, the bridge has eight pavilions named after each immortal. The railings feature exquisite carvings depicting scenes from the legend.
Underwater World
Displaying hundreds of marine species including sharks, sea turtles and coral reef fish. The highlight is the underwater tunnel where visitors can observe marine life swimming overhead.
Cuisine
Eight Immortals Banquet
A specialty feast with eight main dishes named after each immortal, using fresh local seafood and ingredients, beautifully presented with auspicious meanings.
Penglai Noodles
A local specialty featuring hair-thin noodles served with seafood broth and various seafood toppings, a must-try delicacy in Penglai.
Seafood BBQ
The seaside BBQ area offers various fresh seafood like squid, scallops and prawns, grilled to order with unique flavors.
Ticket Information
Admission: ¥120/person; combo ticket with Three Fairy Mountains: ¥200/person. Seniors over 60 and students enjoy half-price with valid ID; children under 1.4m enter free. Opening hours: peak season (Apr 1-Oct 31) 7:00-18:00; off-season (Nov 1-Mar 31) 8:00-17:00.
Recommended Routes
Classic half-day route: Main Gate → Eight Immortals Square → Huixian Pavilion → Wangying Tower → Eight Immortals Bridge → Underwater World → Exit. Covers main highlights for time-limited visitors.
In-depth full-day route: Main Gate → Eight Immortals Square → Huixian Pavilion (ascend for views) → Wangying Tower (tea with sea view) → Eight Immortals Bridge → Underwater World → Restaurant → Free time → Exit. Offers comprehensive cultural experience.
Transportation
- Air: Penglai International Airport about 25km away (~30 minutes by taxi)
- High-speed rail: Penglai Station (~15 minutes by taxi)
- Bus: Take city buses No.3 or 5 to "Eight Immortals" stop
- Drive: Exit at Penglai on Rongwu Expressway, ~10 minutes along Binhai Road
Must-See Attractions
- Eight Immortals Square: Admire lifelike sculptures and learn about the culture
- Huixian Pavilion: Ascend for panoramic "sea meets sky" views
- Wangying Tower: Enjoy tea while appreciating sea views
- Eight Immortals Bridge: Stroll while admiring exquisite carvings
- Underwater World: Observe diverse marine life up close
Travel Tips
- Best visiting season is May-October with pleasant weather and beautiful sea views
- Morning visits recommended for best photo lighting and fewer crowds
- Bring windproof clothing as the seaside can be windy
- Consider hiring a guide for better cultural understanding
- Enjoy sunset views by the sea in the evening
Important Notes
- Observe safety rules when by the sea
- Protect the environment - no littering
- Do not touch sculptures and exhibits to preserve cultural relics
- Secure personal belongings especially in crowded areas
- No flash photography in Underwater World