Beihai is one of China’s rising coastal destinations. Here, you’ll meet people from all over the country — from Northeast to Southwest China — with only about 10% being locals. You could say Beihai is truly a “city of migrants.”

How did this happen? Beihai began as a small fishing village. Thanks to its natural deep-water harbor and location near Vietnam, Guangzhou, and inland China, it flourished during the Qing Dynasty — China’s last imperial era. The city soon attracted both domestic and foreign merchants, leading to the construction of consulates, hospitals, churches, and modern schools.

Historic consulate buildings and Qing Dynasty architecture in Beihai's old town, showcasing the city's colonial past and early modern development. Beihai's Silver Beach with its characteristic fine white sand stretching along the coastline, and volcanic scenery of Weizhou Island in the background.

Remarkably, Beihai had electric streetlights even before Jinan, the capital of Shandong Province, was electrified — a symbol of its early prosperity. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Beihai replaced Hepu as the regional center. During the early years of China’s reform and opening-up, it became one of the 14 coastal open cities, drawing businesspeople from Hong Kong and Sichuan.

Beihai's modern development showcasing its status as one of China's 14 coastal open cities, with a blend of historic architecture and modern infrastructure.

Today, Silver Beach is famous for its fine white sand and easy access, making it one of the most popular mainland beach destinations. Weizhou Island, with its volcanic landscape and frequent sightings of Bryde’s whales, has made Beihai go viral once again.

Beihai's coastal scenery with a focus on its beautiful beaches and natural landscapes, highlighting the city's appeal as a tourist destination. Beihai's traditional fishing culture and coastal lifestyle, showcasing local fishermen at work and traditional boats. Beihai's vibrant local markets and cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and traditional snacks enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.

Beihai — once a quiet fishing village — has lived through over a century of remarkable transformation. Join RPL School and let’s uncover the city’s fascinating stories together!

Our walking route includes:

● Former British, French, and German consulates — windows into Beihai’s foreign trade history.

Beihai Former Consulates showcasing the city's foreign trade history

● The Qing Dynasty Post Office and Customs Building — once the gateway linking China to the world.

Beihai Qing Dynasty Post Office and Customs Building, a gateway linking China to the world

● A small intangible cultural heritage exhibition hidden in a historic German trading courtyard.

Beihai Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition showcasing local traditional crafts Historic German trading courtyard housing Beihai's cultural heritage exhibition

● The Beihai Shell Carving Museum (admission required, passport needed for entry) — showcasing exquisite local craftsmanship.

Beihai Shell Carving Museum showcasing exquisite local craftsmanship Intricate shell carving artworks at Beihai Shell Carving Museum

● Along the way, we’ll pass by some hidden local spots — secret little shops only Beihai residents know. Let’s explore and discover them together with RPL School!

Note: Please bring your passport, drinking water, and sun protection.

A relaxing and educational city walk — experience Beihai’s blend of history, culture, and taste with RPL School.