Established in 1985, Huadong Baili Winery was the first in the country to fully adopt the international OIV standards, which govern winemaking on a global scale. Located in the Laoshan region and covering over 1,200 acres, this winery isn’t just a production facility—it’s an immersive destination.

I toured the vineyard grounds, walked through the exhibition halls, and entered the cool cellars where single-varietal, single-origin, and single-vintage wines are carefully crafted.

What stood out to me was how deeply the company integrates advanced techniques like dynamic temperature-controlled fermentation, ensuring both consistency and quality in every bottle.

I also had the pleasure of tasting a range of their wines, each reflecting the terroir of this unique region.

Later that afternoon, I boarded a bus and followed the Yellow Sea coastline for a two-hour ride to Yantai’s Marine Star Pier. As someone from a landlocked country, being by the sea already felt special—but what awaited me there surpassed expectations.

A short ride took us to the Marine Ranch, a pioneering project that fuses intelligent aquaculture with tourism. Its distinct gemstone necklace-shaped layout is not just eye-catching but symbolic of China’s commitment to sustainable development under its ‘blue economy’ strategy.

Here, I tried fishing for the first time—a moment that was both exciting and oddly meditative. We also explored the aquacultural platforms, observed various species, and enjoyed the golden-hour view from the sea.

The visit concluded with a virtual reality experience that simulated life under the ocean, showcasing how cutting-edge technology is now part of everyday learning and tourism in China.

The following day, I stepped back in time as I explored Suochengli Block, the historical core of Yantai. This area has a deep past, dating back to 1398 when it was established as a garrison during the Ming Dynasty.

Later, it transitioned into a farming community during the Qing Dynasty. Walking through its well-preserved alleys and stone walls felt like moving through a living museum.

Just nearby is Chaoyang Street, once a vital trading hub during Yantai’s commercial rise. Since 2021, the street has been revived as a wine culture destination, repurposing its Qing-era architecture into cafes, tasting rooms, and small museums.

While there, I met a man who left a lasting impression. He spoke English with an American accent but revealed that he had taught himself the language—no formal education, no tutors. His welcoming nature and curiosity mirrored the larger spirit of the city.

To wrap up my journey, I visited Yantai Mountain—referred to by locals as the “mother mountain” of the city. Spanning 45 hectares, this coastal hill is a convergence point for sea, land, and city. The area is lush with greenery and features unique geological formations and 19th-century buildings once used by foreign consulates.

On that day, I witnessed children dressed in traditional costumes performing dances and songs. These cultural presentations, combined with the natural beauty around us, created a heartfelt moment that highlighted Yantai’s pride in its heritage.

Reflecting on the trip, I recalled the words of Pan Shiyou, Deputy Director of the Standing Committee of Yantai Municipal People’s Congress, during a welcome banquet.

He said, “We sincerely hope that during your stay here, you will see around for yourself, taste great wine, enjoy the wonderland, experience the charm and romance of ‘Coastal wonderland, remarkable Yantai’, and tell the world with your writing and camera.” His invitation was an accurate summary of what I experienced.

A historic trading street reborn—where wine, history, and hospitality blend together

A century-old wine barrel preserved at Huadong Baili Winery—a symbol of tradition, no longer in use but rich in history

Children in traditional dress perform at Yantai Mountain, a symbol of local pride and heritage

Inside the winery’s cellars, where precision-controlled fermentation ensures quality in every barrel

Huadong Baili Winery in Yantai—one of China's pioneers in international-standard winemaking since 1985

Preserved through centuries, the buildings of Suochengli Block offer a living glimpse into Yantai’s layered past

Qing-era buildings on Chaoyang Street now house tasting rooms and wine museums

Sailing toward the Marine Ranch—an innovative fusion of aquaculture and sustainable tourism leaves indelible memories.

Single-origin wines that reflect the unique terroir of Yantai’s coastal hills

Strolling through Chaoyang Street—where cobblestone paths and Qing-era architecture tell stories of Yantai’s trading past

The view from Yantai’s Marine Star Pier, where landlocked travelers meet the vast Yellow Sea

Walking through Suochengli Block’s alleys feels like stepping into a Ming Dynasty garrison

Yantai Mountain blends natural beauty with colonial history in one breathtaking view

Yantai Mountain draws crowds of visitors who come to explore its scenic trails, cultural landmarks, and sweeping coastal views