History of Beihai
Beihai was an important port of departure for the ancient "Maritime Silk Road" and one of the famous historical and cultural cities in China. In the first year of Emperor Kangxi (1662) during the Qing Dynasty, the Qing government set "Beihai Town" as the title of the area. In June 1965, Beihai was placed under the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region by Guangdong Province, and the name of Beihai has remained in use today.
What to see in Beihai?
Beihai boasts many scenic areas displaying modern gardening techniques. Such scenic places include the Beibu Gulf Square, Silver Beach, Underwater World, Weizhou Island and Xingdao Lake. Many human and cultural scenic spots also can be found including Wenchang Pagoda and Dongpo Pavilion.
Beihai Silver Beach | Weizhou Island | Yangmei Ancient Town |
Facing the Beibu Gulf, the local climate is very pleasant. Besides the famous long sliver beach and beautiful seascapes, Beihai is also known for its fresh air which has higher oxygen content. A lot of nursing homes and recovery centers with perfect facilities thus are built in the city.
When to visit Beihai?
Beihai's climate is a maritime monsoon climate with typical subtropical characteristics. Winter half year (October to March), summer half year (April-September). There is no winter and the climate is pleasant.The sufficient sunlight, abundant rainfall, luxuriant plants, and silver beaches all make it one of the best destinations for a vacation, especially the beaches, drawing numerous beach-inspired tourists.
How to reach Beihai?
A strong communication network has formed in the city and the transportation is fast and convenient either by sea, by road or by air.
Beihai Fucheng Airport is one of the three big airports in Guangxi. There are trains to many cities in China and many highroads are in use. Beihai's harbor makes it easy to travel within China and abroad. The exit procedure for travel by sea from the city to Xialong in Viet Nam has been made easier making it more convenient to travel to Viet Nam. Within the city there are limited bus lines thus pedicabs are very popular. Cheaper than taxies, they provide tourists with the opportunity to see the beautiful local sights.
Beihai Travel Tips
Dining in Beihai is attractive and provides many types of cuisine within close proximity. Guangdong, Shandong, Hunan, Sichuan and Zhejiang Cuisines are readily available. Of course there are also many restaurants serving western-style food. Seafood is popular there due to its proximity to the seafood market situated on its shoreline. Fish, shrimp, shellfish and crab are readily available. The blowing sea breeze adds to the fun of eating seafood.
Nightlife in Beihai is also colorful. If you would like to find some places for entertainment, here are some recommended nightclubs: Stars on the Sea Night Club near Shangri-la Hotel, Taihe Night Club near Taihe Hotel, and Zhongyu Night Club near Zhongyu Hotel. The fee for a table normally costs CNY18-38 per person. Drinks are, of course, extra.
Shopping in Beihai- such as the Hualian Department Store in Xinli Square and the Guotong Center - are all located at the middle section of Beibu Gulf Road. In addition, the Old Street areas of Zhongshan Road and Jiefang Road are good places for window shopping. Beihai is also the hometown of Nanzhu (southern pearl) and many shops sell pearls.