East China's Shandong province is accelerating the development of marine tourism, turning its coastline into a dynamic destination for leisure and culture.

In Rizhao, a 28‑kilometer coastal greenway now connects mountains, forests, and beaches. Once degraded by salt flats and fish ponds, the area has been ecologically restored without removing a single pine tree or rock. Visitors cycle, fly kites, and play beach games, marking a shift from the traditional sightseeing.

With abundant tourism offerings, Qingdao provides visitors with various travel routes linking mountains, the sea, bays, and city areas. [Photo/WeChat account: sdswltwx]

Qingdao offers 19 cruise routes that link mountains, the sea, bays, and the city skyline. The "Touring Qingdao on the sea" initiative allows tourists to chase seagulls, watch sunsets, and enjoy night views of the city through a collection of curated itineraries. The city aims to become an international coastal resort offering shoreline, offshore, island, and sea‑air tourism.

The ocean science and technology museum in Weihai uses digital simulations to create immersive experiences like deep sea diving. Visitors can also steer virtual vessels and experience "farming the sea".

Yantai's Genghai No 1 is an integrated offshore platform combining smart aquaculture with tourism. Tourists can fish, harvest seafood, and take a "deep‑sea elevator" to explore underwater wonders.

Through ecological restoration, land‑sea coordination, and digital empowerment, Shandong is building a high‑quality blue tourism industry, contributing to its goal of becoming a strong maritime province.