Location & How to Get There

Donghai Arsenal Coastal Scenic Area sits in Zhifu District, Yantai City, Shandong Province. It’s nestled along Binhai Road, just a stone’s throw from East Tower No. 9. If you’re coming from Yantai Train Station, a 20-minute taxi ride will drop you right at the coast. Buses 31 and 49 also stop nearby, making it easy to reach by public transport. For those driving, there’s ample parking—perfect for a spontaneous road-trip stop!

Natural Scenery: Coastal Bliss

This spot is all about ocean views. Three sides of the park are hugged by the sea, so no matter where you wander, you’ll hear waves crashing and feel salty breezes. The Moon Bay area (locals call it Yueliang Wan) has a sandy shore that’s great for strolling. At Shell Picking Beach, kids (and adults!) love scouring the tide pools for tiny crabs or pretty shells. For a quieter vibe, head to the Seaview Garden, where wind-twisted pine trees frame panoramic shots of the water. Sunset here is magical—trust me, bring your camera!

History & Culture: A Cannon’s-Eye View

The Ancient Battery is the heart of Donghai Arsenal. Bulky cannons from the late 1800s still stand watch over the sea, built by German engineers during Qing Dynasty times. What makes this place cool? You can actually touch and climb on the old artillery—something you rarely see in preserved forts. The highlight? A massive “Krupp” gun (a.k.a. the badass cannon of the 19th century). After restoration, visitors can now pull the ropes and pretend to fire it. Pro tip: Check the schedule for Qing Dynasty soldier drills—they reenact battles with drums and costumes. It’s like stepping into a history textbook!

Practical Stuff: Food, Rest, and More

The park is surprisingly tourist-friendly. There’s a coastal walkway with shaded pavilions if you need a break. For snacks, a few vendors sell grilled squid and ice cream near the entrance. Families will love the children’s play area with swings and a mini-fort. Clean restrooms and drinking fountains are dotted across the park, too. If you’re staying longer, bike rentals let you explore nearby trails without wearing out your shoes.

What to Do: A Day of Adventure

Start your visit at the Battery Museum to get context about why this fort mattered. Then hike up to the Main Cannon Plaza—the views alone are worth it. Time your visit for the 11 AM or 3 PM live cannon demonstration (they fire blanks, don’t worry!). Afterward, walk down to Moon Bay for a swim or picnic. End your day at Shell Picking Beach as the sun sets. Bonus: On weekends, local artists sometimes set up stalls selling ocean-themed crafts.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

Donghai Arsenal isn’t just a “look-don’t-touch” museum. It’s interactive—you can clamber on historic guns, watch reenactments, and even pretend to be a Qing soldier. Unlike crowded cities like Qingdao, Yantai feels laid-back, and this park blends culture, nature, and fun without feeling rushed. Bring comfy shoes, sunscreen, and curiosity. Whether you’re into history, photography, or just chilling by the sea, this spot has layers.

Tip: Weekdays are less crowded. Pair your visit with a trip to Yantai’s Wine Street for dinner—it’s 15 minutes away!