The Shandong Peninsula faces the sea on three sides, and the three cities of Qingdao, Yantai and Weihai are close together, linked by high-speed and intercity trains - an easy coastal route, done in 6 days.
Days 1-2, Qingdao: feed the gulls at the Zhanqiao Pier, stroll Badaguan's red-roofed villas among green trees, and finish with a draught beer at the Tsingtao Beer Museum - beer is this city's pride.
Day 3, Yantai: Penglai Pavilion is the legendary spot where the Eight Immortals crossed the sea, with a viewing platform for "mirage" sightings; Yantai's apples and wine are also famous.
Days 4-5, Weihai: Liugong Island holds the memory of China's modern navy; cycle the coastal road for sunrise; Weihai's waters are among the cleanest in the north.
Day 6, return: high-speed rail back to Qingdao or Yantai's airport; summer is peak season with cheap fresh seafood, winter is quiet but the sea wind is bitter.
