Things To Do
in Qinhuangdao

Qinhuangdao, located in Hebei province, China, is a picturesque coastal city known for its stunning beaches and historical significance. It serves as a gateway to the Great Wall of China, particularly the famous Shanhaiguan section. The city is also a popular summer destination, offering a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty.

With its rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere, Qinhuangdao attracts both domestic and international tourists.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Coastal Charm
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the scenic Beidaihe Beach, where you can take a leisurely walk along the shore and enjoy the sunrise.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the Great Wall at Shanhaiguan, where you can visit the First Pass Under Heaven and learn about its historical significance.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a seafood dinner at a local restaurant overlooking the ocean, followed by a stroll along the beach promenade.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Historical Insights
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Qinhuangdao Museum to understand the city's history and cultural heritage.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the scenic Nanhu Eco-city Central Park, where you can enjoy nature and relax.

evening
:

Enjoy a night out in the city center, trying local street foods and visiting bars for a taste of the nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$5
Coffee at a cafe$2
🚕Taxi ride (within city)$3
🏨Night in a budget hotel$30
🎟️Ticket to a local attraction$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal scenery and beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Delicious seafood and local cuisine.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Crowded during peak summer months.
  • Public transportation may be confusing for newcomers.
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "您好" - Hello
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Excuse me, where is the bathroom?
  • "我不懂" - I don't understand
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Qinhuangdao

Visit one of these nice places.

Beidaihe Beach

A stunning beach with golden sands and beautiful sunsets, perfect for capturing seaside moments.

Great Wall at Shanhaiguan

An iconic location where the Great Wall meets the sea, offering breathtaking views.

Qinhuangdao Harbor

A picturesque harbor with fishing boats and scenic views, ideal for capturing the essence of coastal life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Qinhuangdao

Qinhuangdao offers a delightful culinary experience with its coastal seafood and local specialties, making it a food lover's paradise.

Qinhuangdao Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Seafood Hotpot

A local favorite, this dish features fresh seafood cooked in a flavorful broth, perfect for sharing.

Must-Try!

Peking Duck

Although originally from Beijing, the duck here is renowned for its crispy skin and rich flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Qinhuangdao Night Market

A vibrant market offering a variety of street food options, from grilled skewers to sweet treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Qinhuangdao has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F), while winters can be cold, dipping as low as -5°C (23°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is concentrated in summer months, with occasional typhoons affecting the coast.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is important; greet them first and offer your seat if necessary.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it's customary to wait for the host to start eating before you begin.

Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance when interacting with others, as personal space is valued.

Safety Guide

Safety

Qinhuangdao is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, visitors should remain vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. It's also advisable to follow local traffic rules and be cautious when crossing streets.

Tipping in Qinhuangdao

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not a common practice in China, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Mobile payments via apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used; cash is still accepted but less common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures make it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing, with blooming flowers enhancing the scenery.

Summer

Hot and humid, summer is ideal for beach activities, but be prepared for larger crowds at tourist spots.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create a picturesque backdrop for exploration.

Winter

Cold and windy, winter sees fewer tourists, but the quiet beaches can be quite serene.

Nightlife Guide

Qinhuangdao at Night

Qinhuangdao boasts a lively nightlife scene with various bars, nightclubs, and entertainment options, particularly in the city center. Visitors can enjoy local beers and cocktails at beachfront bars or dance the night away in modern clubs. Karaoke is also a popular activity, with many venues offering private rooms for groups.

Hiking in Qinhuangdao

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yanshan Mountain Trail

A scenic trail offering stunning views of the mountains and coastline, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Great Wall Hiking Section

A challenging hike along a less-traveled section of the Great Wall, providing both adventure and historical insights.

Airports

How to reach Qinhuangdao by plane.

Qinhuangdao Beidaihe International Airport

Located about 50 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Qinhuangdao is fairly walkable, particularly in the city center and at popular tourist spots like Beidaihe Beach. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian areas are common. However, some parts of the city may lack proper pedestrian crossings, so caution is advised when navigating streets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Qinhuangdao, making up approximately 90% of the population.

Ethnic Minorities

Includes groups such as Manchu and Hui, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport in Qinhuangdao, with local teams and youth leagues participating in regional competitions.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys considerable popularity, with many courts available in parks and neighborhoods for public use.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Qinhuangdao can be congested, especially during rush hours. The city has a network of buses that cover major areas, but schedules may not be reliable. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available and are a popular choice for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Qinhuangdao.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

There are several restaurants offering vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Qinhuangdao is adequate, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and tourists. The largest hospital, Qinhuangdao First Hospital, provides a range of services, but it is advisable to have travel insurance and understand basic medical vocabulary. Pharmacies are widely available for over-the-counter medications.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide