Laolongtou

Historical Overview

• Ming Dynasty Construction (1381): Built by General Xu Da to defend against Mongol and pirate incursions, featuring 10-meter-high stone walls and arrow towers.
• Qing Dynasty Expansion (17th–18th centuries): Added the Temple of the Sea God (Haichang Temple) and expanded coastal watchtowers.
• Modern Era (1980s–Present): Restored as a tourist attraction, with archaeological excavations uncovering cannon emplacements and soldier barracks.
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes China’s "Land and Sea" defense strategy, linking Great Wall lore with maritime folklore.

Structural Layout

The area is divided into three zones:

1. Maritime Fortress Zone: Features the "Dragon’s Head" sea gate, stone battlements, and the Chenghai Tower (main watchtower).
2. Cultural Temple Zone: Includes the Temple of the Sea God, Bell Tower, and Drum Tower.
3. Coastal Ecology Zone: Coastal Boardwalk, tidal flats, and migratory bird habitats.

Key structures:

• Chenghai Tower: A 15-meter-tall watchtower with cannons and stone carvings.
• Ninghai City Wall: Remnants of a 1424-built auxiliary fort.

Major Attractions

1. Dragon’s Head Sea Gate: A stone archway extending 23 meters into the Bohai Sea, offering sunrise views.
2. Chenghai Tower: Climb the three-story tower for panoramic vistas of the coast and ancient cannons.
3. Temple of the Sea God: A Qing Dynasty temple housing statues of deities protecting fishermen and sailors.
4. Binhai Boardwalk: A 1.2-km wooden path along tidal flats, ideal for photography.
5. Old Dragon Head Museum: Displays Ming Dynasty armor, maps, and ship models.
6. Tidal Flat Observation Deck: Witness the "Dragon Crossing the Sea" phenomenon during spring tides.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Route (2–3 hours):
   Visitor Center → Dragon’s Head Sea Gate → Chenghai Tower → Temple of the Sea God → Binhai Boardwalk → Return
   Highlights: Coastal defense history and sea views.

2. Extended Route (4–5 hours):
   Visitor Center → Dragon’s Head → Chenghai Tower → Old Dragon Head Museum → Ninghai City Wall → Tidal Flat Deck → Sunset at Binhai Boardwalk
   Highlights: Archaeological insights and tidal phenomena.

3. Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
   Visitor Center → Guided Tour of Restoration Sites → Chenghai Tower → Temple of the Sea God → Binhai Boardwalk → Museum → Tidal Flat Deck → Night Light Show
   Highlights: Full immersion in maritime history and ecology.

Ticket Purchase

• Entrance Fee: ¥50 (peak season: May–Oct), ¥30 (off-season: Nov–Apr).
• Concessions: 50% off for students/seniors; free for children under 1.2m and military personnel.
• Online: Book via Ctrip or WeChat 3 days in advance.
• On-Site: Tickets available at the visitor center; queues average 20 minutes.

Transportation

• From Qinhuangdao City: 30-minute drive via Hebei Avenue (¥40 taxi fare).
• Bus: Route 25 → Laolongtou Stop (¥2 fare, 40 minutes).
• Tour Bus: Shuttle services from downtown hotels (¥30 round-trip).
• Park Shuttle: ¥20/day for unlimited electric cart use.

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: May–June (mild weather), September–October (clear skies for photography).
• Avoid Crowds: Visit early morning (7:30–9:30 AM) or late afternoon (3:30–5:00 PM).
• Essentials:
  • Wear waterproof shoes for tidal flat walks.
  • Bring a tripod for long-exposure sunrise shots.
  • Photography: Polarizing filter recommended for sea views.
• Prohibited Items: Drones (require permit), fishing in protected zones.
• Cultural Tip: Participate in the "Dragon Boat Festival" (June) for traditional races and folklore performances.