Liugong Island Scenic Area is located in Huancui District, Weihai City, Shandong Province. As a national 5A-level tourist attraction and key cultural relic protection unit, it covers 3.15 square kilometers. Known as the "Fairy Mountain on the Sea" and "Shangri-La", it's the birthplace of China's first modern navy - the Beiyang Fleet, and an important historical site of the First Sino-Japanese War.
History and Culture
With a long history, legend says a branch of the imperial Liu family moved here during the late Eastern Han Dynasty to avoid war, hence the name Liugong (Duke Liu's) Island. During Ming and Qing dynasties, it became an important coastal defense site. In 1888, the Qing government established the Beiyang Fleet here, making it a key base for China's modern navy.
When the First Sino-Japanese War broke out in 1894, Liugong Island became a major battlefield where the Beiyang Fleet fought fiercely against the Japanese Combined Fleet, leaving behind heroic deeds and precious historical relics.
Today, Liugong Island is not only a patriotic education base but also a tourist destination combining natural scenery and cultural landscapes, with lush vegetation and 87% forest coverage, earning the title "Marine Forest Park".
Main Attractions
First Sino-Japanese War Museum
Based in the former site of Beiyang Fleet Headquarters, the museum comprehensively displays the war's history, exhibiting numerous precious relics and historical photos including Beiyang Fleet's weapons and ship models, making it essential for understanding China's modern naval history.
Beiyang Fleet Headquarters
Built in 1888 as the fleet's supreme command center, this three-courtyard complex covers about 10,000 square meters, with restored scenes of Admiral Ding Ruchang and other officers' work and life.
Donghong Fort
An important coastal defense fortification built in 1889 with advanced Krupp cannons. Well-preserved, visitors can closely observe century-old military facilities.
Liugong Island National Forest Park
With dense forests of over 200 plant species like black pine and locust, and 50+ wild animal species, the park offers fresh air and tranquil environment with island-circumnavigating trails perfect for leisurely walks.
Liugong Island Whale Museum
Displays a 19.6-meter-long, 50-ton sperm whale specimen - currently Asia's largest sperm whale exhibition. Multimedia technologies vividly present marine biology knowledge.
Cuisine
Seafood Banquet
Abundant seafood like abalone, sea cucumber, prawns and scallops from surrounding waters. Island restaurants serve fresh seafood feasts, especially popular are steamed seafood dishes.
Weihai Steamed Jelly
A traditional snack made from sweet potato starch with chewy texture, stir-fried or stewed, often cooked with seafood for unique flavor.
Fish Pot with Corn Cakes
A local specialty stewing fresh fish with corn cakes in one pot - tender fish and cakes absorbing the delicious broth, representing fishermen's traditional cuisine.
Ticket Information
Admission (including round-trip ferry): ¥122/person; seniors over 60 and students: ¥81 with valid ID; children under 1.2m free. Opening hours: 7:30-17:30 (extended to 18:00 in peak season).
Recommended Routes
Historical one-day route: First Sino-Japanese War Museum → Beiyang Fleet Headquarters → Donghong Fort → Naval Academy Site → Ding Ruchang Memorial. Ideal for history enthusiasts.
Natural scenery one-day route: Liugong Island National Forest Park → Whale Museum → Island Tour → Beach. Perfect for nature lovers.
Transportation
- Ferry: Frequent departures from Weihai Tourist Wharf (~20 minutes)
- Bus: Take city buses 10 or 32 to the wharf from downtown Weihai
- Drive: Navigate to "Liugong Island Tourist Wharf" with parking available
- Sightseeing Bus: Island-circumnavigating bus for ¥20/person
Must-See Attractions
- First Sino-Japanese War Museum: Learn war history and patriotism
- Beiyang Fleet Headquarters: Visit the navy's former command center
- Donghong Fort: Observe century-old coastal defenses and Krupp cannons
- Liugong Island National Forest Park: Enjoy the "Marine Forest Oxygen Bar"
- Whale Museum: See Asia's largest sperm whale specimen
Travel Tips
- Best visiting season May-October with pleasant island climate
- Morning visits recommended to avoid afternoon return crowds
- Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking
- Sun protection in summer, windproof clothing in winter
- Consider hiring a guide for deeper historical insights
Important Notes
- Observe safety precautions when boarding ferries
- Don't touch military relics as they're protected cultural sites
- Protect island environment - no littering
- Be aware of tidal changes when by the sea
- Purchase tickets in advance during peak seasons